
Class iLM3. 

Book h ~ 



Gopyiight N? 



COHYHIGHT DEPOSIT. 



Animal Castration 

A Book for the Use of 
STUDENTS AND PRACTITIONERS 

240 Pages 

with over 200 Halftone Illustrations from Original Photographs 

BY 

GEORGE R. WHITE, M.D., D.V.S. 

Graduate Columbian University (Veterinary Department), and 
University of Nashville (Medical Department) 

MEMBER 

American Veterinary Medical Association 

Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association 

American Medical Association 

Tennessee Medical Association 

Nashville Academy of Medicine, and 

Davidson County Medical Society 

Tennessee Academy of Science, 

United States Live Stock Sanitary Association, etc. 

Professor Veterinary Medicine — Knapp School of Country Life 

TEACHER SURGICAL RESTRAINT AND CASTRATION AND SPAYING 

Chicago Veterinary College 

Terre Haute Veterinary College 

Indiana Veterinary College, and 

Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Veterinary Department) 

Author ''Restraint of Domestic Animals," etc. 




PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR 

NASHVILLE, TENN. 
1914 



Copyrighted 1914 

by 
George R. White 



OEC 26 1914 



1914 

FOSTER & PAKKES COMPANY, 

Nashville, Tenn. 



'nuani 1 H9 



<oFs 



DEDICATION 

TO 

Professor Charles Allen Cary, B.S., D.V.M., 

As a slight token of personal friendship and esteem, as 
well as for his successful efforts in undertaking 
the apparently insurmountable task of es- 
tablishing and successfully conducting 
the first accredited Veterinary 
College in the South 

The Author 



PREFACE 

To those entrusted with the onerous task of castrating and 
spaying domestic animals the scantness of modern literature — 
especially that printed in English and by American authors — 
dealing with the subject must have always proved a matter of 
considerable embarrassment. 

This universally recognized lack of a well illustrated book on 
the important subject of unsexing animals has induced the author 
to write and publish this volume. 

It is offered with the desire and hope that it will — in a meas- 
ure at least — close this wide gap in our English speaking lit- 
erature. 

Twenty-one years' actual and active experience in city and 
rural practice as well as several years as a teacher of this par- 
ticular subject leads me to believe that a text-book well illustrated, 
written by an American, based on American methods, will be 
acceptable to the student and practitioner who really has a de- 
sire to become proficient in performing the operations of cas- 
tration and spaying. The illustrations and text are for the most 
part original. The methods described are those employed in 
actual every-day practice by the author. 

In presenting this volume to the indulgence of veterinarians 
the author's only regret is that during its preparation he was 
State Veterinarian of Tennessee, and did not have the time at 
his disposal to insure the best authorship results. Hence he is 
constrained to appeal for lenient judgment and criticism on the 
book prepared under no common stress of duties — administrative, 
professional, social and political. 

George E. White. 



FOREWORD 



INSTRUMENTS 

The first essential to the proper performance of the operations 
of castration and spaying is instruments of modern and approved 
design made from material of unquestioned quality. 

Instruments of the same external appearance — which usually 
means nothing more nor less than finish, and finish in turn merely 
means polish and plate — may vary greatly in quality of material 
and workmanship. 

Never purchase cheap instruments at any price, as they are 
not satisfactory or dependable. The best are none too good, as 
oftentimes an instrument will make or unmake a man's reputa- 
tion as an operator. 

If these operations — castration and spaying — are to be done 
neatly and with dexterity, antiquated instruments have no place 
in the operative technique. Nothing conduces quite so much to 
awkwardness in operating and an all around "bunglesome job" 
as do instruments of improper construction. 

There are numerous castrating and spaying instruments of- 
fered to the public by many commercial firms that are bad and 
others worse than worthless for the purpose for which they are 
intended. The one admonition the author would offer above all 
others is to exercise extreme care and good judgment in selecting 
castrating and spaying instruments. 

Most manufacturers of surgical instruments and their shop 
mechanics have little or no conception or practical knowledge of 
the actual requirements of the instruments which they make and 
sell. 

Unless the purchaser knows what he wants he is at the mercy 
of the ignorant manufacturer and is liable to make mistakes in 
purchasing which will cause embarrassment later when actually 
engaged in operating. 

Remember that there are several grades and many designs of 



castrating and spaying instruments. Always call for "A grade," 
and see to it that you gel exactly what you call for and select 
the design best suited for your requirements. 

It will be observed that numerous instruments are illustrated 
and described in the following pages. Where only one pattern 
of an instrument is shown this means that in the author's opinion 
this particular instrument has advantages over all others and is 
the proper one to purchase. Where two or more instruments of 
the same character are shown it means that the author has no 
preference and that both instruments are equally satisfactory, 
and either may he purchased without making a mistake. 

Each and every instrument illustrated in this volume possesses 
merit, and no mistake will be made in selecting them or either 
..!' them. Our only object in thus illustrating and describing the 
instruments is that in so doing the amateur may have the advan- 
tage of the author's twenty-one years' experience in selecting 
.ind usiiijj,- this class of surgical instruments, and with the hope 
that the information herein contained may in a measure at least 
protect the inexperienced prospective castrator from waking up 
later to the fact that he is in possession of a lot of "useless junk" 
which has been sold to him for castrating and spaying instru- 
ments. 

ZUETHODK 

It will be further observed that only one method of operating 
is illustrated and described, which is quite a revolution in this 
class of literature. All antiquated methods and operative tech- 
nique have been purposely eliminated in order to avoid confusion 
and embarrassment. The methods mentioned are those which 
most appeal to the author's fancy, and while he considers them 
the best, safest, and most satisfactory, still he lays no claim to 
their being the only good methods, and he is perfectly willing to 
be charitable to the extent of granting to others the privilege of 
operating differently if they so desire. 

RESTRAINT 

Restraint of domestic animals, in the broadest acceptation of 
the term, means much t<> the average busy and active practitioner 
of veterinary surgery. 



Each species of our domestic animals is endowed with one or 
more means of defense. These are oftentimes — in individuals of 
certain temperament — converted into weapons of offense. The 
horse will strike, kick and bite ; the ox will gore and kick ; the 
dog and hog will bite. It is with these weapons of offense that 
we are called upon to contend and overcome by restraint. These 
animals must be rendered harmless by the means of restraint 
which we have at hand. Of course the particular method em- 
ployed depends largely upon the animal and the degree of re- 
straint necessary. 

While we constantly find it necessary to employ methods of 
restraint in order to confine the animal, we should always do so 
in as humane a manner as possible. Humanitarian treatment 
applies here as well as elsewhere in the practice of veterinary 
science. We should never take advantage of an animal when 
confined in order to cause torture or to inflict unnecessary pain 
of any kind. 

The surgeon is confronted with problems pertaining to re- 
straint or some method of subjection almost every hour of each 
day of his professional career. 

Not only does the restraint problem confront and concern the 
surgeon alone, but his client and patient are also directly inter- 
ested to a well marked degree. The surgeon owes it to his client, 
his patient and himself to become proficient in properly and se- 
curely restraining animals for examination and operation. With- 
out efficient means of restraint the surgeon is in constant dan- 
ger of great bodily harm; the animal in danger of self-inflicted in- 
juries as a result of its own efforts at resistance, thereby causing 
the owner financial loss, which could and should have been avoided 
by proper methods of procedure. 

In order to cast and secure an animal properly and success- 
fully the operator should possess a level head associated with 
plenty of courage and confidence. He should retain his equili- 
brium in spite of any untoward accident or emergency which may 
chance to take place. Self-confidence and good judgment are 
both valuable assets in performing work of the character which 
this book undertakes to illustrate and describe. The surgeon 
should get control and remain in control from the time the twitch 



is placed on the animal preparatory to applying the hobbles or 
easting harness until the animal is again on its feet. Experience 
and dexterity are nut to be underrated in the operator who is to 
undertake the task of securing and properly confining the larger 
of our domestic animals. Do not allow yourself to become excited 
or unduly alarmed or aggravated should everything not transpire 
as smoothly as you expect or desire, for in so doing the surgeon 
is not in possession of his mental faculties sufficiently to do justice 
cither to himself, his patient or his client. 

Perfect, or even good, surgery is impossible without perfect re- 
straint. The surgeon is no better than the restraint method which 
he uses. It is rare to see a surgeon handle a knife any more 
skillfully than he handles his restraint technique. Imperfect re- 
straint means an imperfect operation. 

The particular methods of restraint necessary for each oper- 
ation and the details pertaining to same will be specifically de- 
scribed under the proper headings. Gr. R. W. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



Chapter I. 

Chapter II. 

Chapter III. 

Chapter IV. 



Chapter V. 



Chapter VI. 
Chapter VII. 
Chapter VIII. 
Chapter IX. 
Chapter X. 
Chapter XI. 



PART I. 

Castration. 

Castration of the Stallion. 

Castration of the Colt. 

Castration of the Mule. 

Complications Encountered, in Castrating — viz. : 
Inguinal Hernia, Scrotal Hernia, Cryptorchid, 
Monorchid, Orchitis, and Hermaphrodite. 

Sequelae of Castration — viz.: Septic Infection, 
Tetanus, Prolapse of the Omentum, Injuries 
from Casting, Peritonitis, Colic, Prolapse of 
the Intestine, Azoturia, Hemorrhage, Oedema 
of Sheath, Schirrous Cord, Exuberant Gran- 
ulations, and Hydrocele. 

Castration of the Bull. 

Castration of the Boar. 

Castration of the Earn. 

Castration of the Dog. 

Castration of the Cat. 

Caponizing. 



Chapter 


I. 


Chapter 


II. 


Chapter 


III. 


Chapter 


IV. 


Chapter 


V. 


Chapter 


VI. 


Chapter 


VII. 


Chapter 


VIII. 



PART II. 

Spaying. 

Mare Spaying. 

Cow, Heifer and Calf Spaying. 

Sow Spaying. 

Sheep Spaying. 

Bitch Spaying. 

Cat Spaying. 

Poulardizing. 

Deodorizing the Skunk. 



PART I. 



CASTRATION. 

Definition — Orchectomy; excision of one or more testicles. The 
term castration is also applied to removal of ovaries from the 
female. However, when the word castration appears in this vol- 
ume — with exception of title — it has reference to unsexing the 
male animal. 

History — Castration is one of the most ancient of surgical op- 
erations upon animals. It was advocated and practiced as eariy 
as seven centuries before the Christian era. Time and tradition 
have not lessened its application or usefulness. In fact, during 
recent years the popularity of the operation has rapidly in- 
creased until now it is considered one of the most useful and 
valuable in animal surgery. 

It is practiced without hesitancy upon all domestic and wild 
animals, and its economic value cannot be overestimated. 

The earlier modes of operating were as follows: Martelage, 
Tearing, Scraping, Torsion, Firing, Bistournage, Ligature and 
Clamps. These ancient methods were extremely painful, and by 
some considered cruel and inhumane. They have all been super- 
seded by less painful and more modern ones, the most recent of 
which are Emasculator, Vasectomy, Bisection, Vaso-Ligation and 
lastly Vas-occlusion recently advocated by Dr. Napoleon Berdozzi, 
of Italy. While the above have been mentioned simply from an 
historic viewpoint, one of them, viz., Emasculator, stands out 
prominently as the best, most widely practiced and satisfactory 
method of operating, and on this account the "Emasculator meth- 
od" will be adhered to in all instances where it is applicable in 
this volume. 



14 Animal Castration 

CHAPTER I. 

Castration of the Stallion. 

Objects and Indications — While the operation is most often 
practiced as an economic procedure in order to increase the ani- 
mal's monetary value and usefulness to mankind, it is nevertheless 
valuable as a corrector of many acquired vices, such as masturba- 
tion, viciousness, etc. It is also indicated in impotency, some dis- 
eases of penis, scrotum, spermatic cord, and testicle. Its effect is 
both mental and physical. 

The operation has a decided tendency to render the animal quiet 
and docile and to alter the conformation in some material respects 
such as lessening development of the shoulders, chest, neck and 
withers. While on the other hand the development of the hind 
quarters is stimulated. 

< 'astrated stallions are known as geldings. 

Age — Stallions may be safely castrated at any age provided 
they are in good physical condition. 

St ason- Spring and early fall. 

Preparation — The intestinal tract should be practically empty 
.it lime of castration. This is attained by withholding food for 
24 to 30 hours before operating. By heeding the above admonition 
the danger of rupturing internal viscera during the operation 
;i!id colic afterwards will be obviated. 

CASTRATING IX THE RECUMBENT POSTURE. 

/,'■ tfraint- When it has been decided to cast the animal, we 
should, first <•!' .-ill, carefully survey the surroundings and select 
the mosl sal Lsfactory Location. Of course circumstances and exist- 
ing conditions play an important role in making our selection. 
When the weather will permil the operat ion being performed out 
of doors there is no place better adapted than an open field or 
lawn. It is here thai we have ample room to manipulate our re- 
straint technique without interruption. When we have selected 



Animal Castration 



15 



the location, the next problem which confronts us is the "casting 
bed." The ideal operating mat or mattress is a plot of green 
grass grown upon smooth ground. Always avoid the manure heap 
or the "rotten straw pile" whenever possible. They are both hot- 
beds of all forms of bacterial growth and are directly responsible 
for many cases of fatal septic infections. If we are forced to 
cast an animal inside of doors, then we must make the best of 
our misfortune and get busy in devising means and methods to 
best overcome that handicap. Select the place — be it hallway, stall 




Fig. 1 — Stallion Cast on Left Side With Conkey Self-Lock Buckle Hobbles. 
Leg P Drawn from Over Field of Operation by Rope R. S. 

or operating room — where the most room is available. Then a 
proper bed must be prepared. This may be done by the use of 
tanbark, soft wood shavings, straw, hay, excelsior, sawdust, etc., 
or a specially constructed mattress or pad may be used. 

Lead animal to proper position, put on twitch, apply the Con- 
key self -lock buckle hobbles and cast him on the left side. (See 
Fig. 1.) 

When cast, the off hind leo: should be released from hobble 



16 Animal Castration 

strap and with a 15-foot rope looped above ankle (P) and passed 
over withers (Q) and under neck then back above hock (R) the 
Leg is drawn from over field of operation. In this position the 
largest stallion can be castrated without difficulty. 

INSTRUMENTS. 

1. Knife — Of course a properly constructed knife is the first 
essential instrument required in performing this operation. The 
Williams all-metal stiff-handle auseptic castrating knife (Fig. 
2 is entirely satisfactory for castrating stallions in the recumbent 

posture. 



Fig. 2 — Williams' All-Metal Stiff Handle Anseptic Castrating Knife. 

2. Emasculator — The only other instrument necessary is an 
emasculator for the purpose of crushing the spermatic cord in 
such manner as to assist nature in controlling hemorrhage. 

There are many designs of emasculators on the American mar- 
ket; however, many of them are inferior and unsatisfactory both 
in design and workmanship. In order for an emasculator to 
perform the task for which it is intended it must first of all be 
ennst rueted with straight cutting and crimping edges. (See D, C, 




!— A Perfectly .Made and Well De- Fig. 4— An Imperfectly Made and Badly 
signed Emasculator. Designed Emasculator. 

Pig. 3.) This simply means that the lower or female jaw must 
be <>n a straight line. When thus constructed the cord is grasped 
and crushed before it is severed. Any emasculator made with 
curved cutting and crimping edges (see A, B, Fig. 4), which 



Animal Castration 17 

means that the lower or female jaw is on a curved line, is not 
dependable in controlling hemorrhage, hence is unsafe and un- 
satisfactory. Fig. 5 illustrates an emasculator of proper design 
and good construction. 




Fig. 5 — A Safe and Satisfactory "Single Crimp Emasculator." 

The "triple crimp emasculators" (Figs. 6, 7 and 8) are some- 
what safer in controlling hemorrhage than the "single crimp' ' 
instrument, as it crushes the cord in three directions. The author 
has used a "triple crimp" instrument for several years with good 
results. Many of the "triple crimp emasculators" now on the 
market are imperfectly constructed and unsatisfactory in that 
not enough space has been left between the male (upper) crush- 
ing plate and the female (lower) plate — when the instrument is 
closed — to receive the cord of a large stallion. Figs. 6, 7 and 8 
illustrate two "triple crimp" emasculators both of which are 
satisfactory. Fig. 8 is equipped with a self-adjusting auxilliary 
attachment. The block attached to the male blade and longi- 
tudinally serrated, is self-adjusting, by which means the com- 
pressing surfaces maintain a parallel position when operated, 
thereby preventing the cord and arteries from being mashed, cut 
or torn at point nearest the hinge of the instrument. 

The spring device operating the auxiliary attachment permits 



18 



Animal Castration 



automatic expansion, thereby making the instrument adjustable 
to large cords, which in many cases cannot be cut by other forms 
of "triple crimp" emasculators in which the crushing block is 
not expansible. 




Fig. 6 — "Triple Crimp Emasculator." (Front View.) 




"Triple Crimp Emasculator." (Hack View.) 



Animal Castration 



19 




Fig. S — Anseptic Triple Crimp Emasculator With Self-Adjusting Auxiliary Attachment. 



Anatomy — A comprehensive knowledge of the anatomy of the 
inguinal and scrotal regions is imperative if a man is ever to be 
anything like a thrilling success in performing the various neces- 
sary operations that are to be described later. However, on ac- 
count of the limited space at my disposal it will be impossible to 
go into minute details here. For complete and detailed anatomical 
description the reader is respectfully referred to Sisson, Chau- 
reau and Strangeway 's text-books on Veterinary Anatomy. 

Scrotum — Is a sac or bag made up externally by a layer of skin 
which has been continued from the sheath, abdomen and flanks. 
This skin is smooth, soft and hairless compared with the other 
integument on the body. The scrotum consists of two cavities 
divided by a longitudinal raphe ("median line"). Below the skin 



20 



Animal Castration 



is the dortos which forms the scrotal tunic proper and consists 
of thin clastic tissue and muscle. The dortos is a continuation of 
the abdominal fascia. Under the dortos is the spermatic fascia 
which is a continuation of the external oblique muscle. This 
muscle is attached to the external abdominal ring. Inside is the 
cremasteric fascia, an expansion of the cremaster muscle which 
passes through the inguinal canal over the cord and surrounds 




Pig. 9— Internal and External Generative Organs of the Stallion: A, Scrotum; B, 
Skin; C, Tunica Vaginalis; D, Dortos; E, Cremaster Muscle; P, Left Vas Deferens; 
G, Bulbona Portion of Vas Deferens; H, Vesicula Seminalis; I, Postate Gland; J, Cow- 
pers Gland; K, Sheath; L, Meatus Crinarius; M, Retractor Muscle of Penis; N, Acceler- 
ator Muscle Surrounding Urethra; O, Erector Penis Muscle; P, Glans Penis; Q, Corpus 
Cavernosuin; R, Right Internal Abdominal Ring; S, Left Internal Abdominal Ring; 
T, Symphysis Pubis; U, Peritoneal Told Through Which the Spermatic Blood Vessels 
and Xerves Pass; V, Right Vas Deferens; W, Bladder; X, Rectum. 



Animal Castration 21 

the testicle. Deeper we have the funnel-shaped infundibuliform 
fascia which originates at the internal abdominal ring. This fascia 
is simply a sheath over the testicle, the cord and their tunics. 

Inguinal Canal — This canal is situated obliquely between the 
crural arch and the internal oblique muscle. The arch forms its 
posterior and the muscle its anterior wall. It is compressed lat- 
erally and through it pass the spermatic cord and the pudic artery. 
Its external orifice is termed the external abdominal ring. This 
ring is oval in shape and its direction is backwards and upwards. 
The internal abdominal ring is a small aperture in the abdom- 
inal wall and is situated at the uppermost part of the inguinal 
canal, which is about 8 to 10 inches above the external abdom- 
inal ring. The contents of the inguinal canal pass through the 
internal abdominal ring in making their exit from the abdominal 
cavity. 

Sheath — The sheath is a loose conglomeration of skin extending 
from the scrotum forward, and contains the free portion of the 
penis. The anterior loose double fold of sheath is known as the 
prepuce or foreskin, which is corrugated to accommodate the 
penis during erection and protrusion. Opening into the sheath 
are ducts from the glandulae odorif erae which secrete an odorous 
matter peculiar to the sheath. The sheath is suspended from 
the abdominal walls by suspensory ligaments. 

Spermatic Cord — The testicle is suspended in the scrotum by 
the spermatic cord which migrates through the inguinal canal from 
the abdominal cavity to the scrotum. The following structures 
enter into its formation: Spermatic venis, spermatic artery, 
nerves, vas deferens, lymphatics, cremaster muscle and tunica 
vaginalis. The vas deferens is situated in the posterior part of 
the cord and is enclosed in a special fold detached from the inner 
surface of the tunica vaginalis. 



22 



Animal Castration 




pjo- 10 — External View of Left Testicle and Spermatic Cord: A, Testes; B, Globus 
Major; C, Globus Minor; D, Body of Epididymus; E F, Spermatic Cord. 

Testicle — The testicle is a compound tubular gland, ovoid in 
form, suspended by the spermatic cord and occupying space in 
the scrotum, inguinal canal or abdominal cavity. When in the 
scrotum it is contained in a sac known as the tunica vaginalis. 

They vary much in size in different subjects and are often of 
unequal size in the same individual. The epididymus (D, Fig. 10) 
is an elongated body extending along upper border of the testes 
( A). It consists of a body (D), a head or globus major (B), 
and a rail or blobus minor (C). 

1 'as \)( ft rens — The vas deferens is a firm hard tube which, after 
leaving the globus minor, ascends the back of the spermatic cord 
through the external abdominal ring, inguinal canal, and internal 
abdominal ring to the abdominal cavity, where it enters the pelvis, 
passing to the antero-lateral aspect of the bladder, where it is 
joined by the duct of the vesicula seminales. This union of ducts 
takes place in the vicinity of the postate gland. 



NTATURE s Millions OF CONTROLLING HEMORRHAGE. 

It is well to always bear in mind the fact that nature is a great 
factor in controlling arterial hemorrhage. To understand exactly 
what nature causes to lake place when an artery is severed is 
knowledge which is never harmful to the surgeon, to say the least 
of it. 'Hi.' following happens as soon as an artery is severed: 



Animal Castration 



23 



(1) Contraction of the mouth of the vessel (see B, Fig. 11) ; (2) 
retraction of the vessel into its sheath (see C, Fig. 11) ; (3) clot 
formation (see D, Fig. 11) ; (4) syncope. 







Fig. 11 — Diagramatic Illustration Showing Three of Nature's Methods of Con- 
trolling Arterial Hemorrhage; A, Severed Artery; B, Contraction; 
C, Retraction; D, Clot Formation. 

The function of the emasculator is to assist nature in prevent- 
ing primary and secondary hemorrhage. This is done by crush- 
ing the cord which crimps or closes the spermatic artery to the 
extent of making the field more favorable for clot formation. 
Never place an emasculator on a cord in any position except at 
right angle to the cord. (See Fig. 12.) If the cord is severed at 
any other angle (see Fig. 13) fatal hemorrhage is liable to occur. 

Warning — Before beginning to operate always carefully ex- 
amine the animal for inguinal and scrotal hernia ("rupture"), 
abnormalities in development and diseases of the scrotum testicle 
and cord. It is also well to look out for constitutional diseases 
which would have a tendency to endanger the life of the animal 
or interfere with convalescence. Never castrate if the animal is 



24 



Animal Castbation 







■ 


' 




^^^^^ Pl^^ji 






i^^^ ■!" mil— — "- ■■■■■■— 


h^te. Wti^^^ 









Fis. 12 — Correct Position of Emasculator on the Spermatic Cord. 




Fig. 13 — Incorrect Position of Emasculator on the Spermatic Cord. 

affected with strangles, influenza, pleurisy, pneumonia, bronchitis, 
catarrhal fever, or purpura haemorrhagica. Be careful in cast- 
ing and tieing, and above all satisfy yourself that the testicles are 
actually in the scrotum. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands 
It' good results are to be expected all instruments should be ster- 
ilized by boiling for 15 to 20 minutes; after boiling immerse them 
in .-i porcelain bowl or granite pan into which has been put one 
tablespoonful of either Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. to 
each quari of water. In the absence of the above, carbolic acid 
'" - per cenl solution is permissible. Where there are several 
animals to be operated upon it is not practicable nor is it neces- 
sary or desirable to boil the instruments between each operation. 
Eowever, they should be washed and placed back in the anti- 
septic solution. The operator's hands should be thoroughly 
with soap and warm water — using a scrub or nail brush — 
ng a job of castrating and he should wash them in 



Animal Castration 25 

an antiseptic solution between operations. The cleaner you are 
with your work the fewer cases of sepsis you will have to follow. 

Operative Technique — After the animal is cast and tied and the 
instruments and hands of the operator prepared, the field of opera- 
tion and the surrounding parts should be thoroughly washed with 
Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. in the strength of one table- 
spoonful to each quart of water. I will here take advantage of this 
opportunity to condemn in the strongest and most emphatic terms 
possible "sheath washing" at time of castrating. What is here 
meant by "sheath washing" is washing or undertaking in any 
manner to cleanse the interior of the sheath. Washing the sheath 
at or immediately before castration will not only contaminate the 
field of operation and thereby increase the danger of sepsis, but it 
invariably encourages the early development of aggravated cases 
of oedema and oftentimes paraphimosis. The sheath should be 
washed several days before operating or it should be let alone until 
after the animal has completely recovered. With the animal, 




Fig. 14 — General External View of Scrotum and Sheath. AA, Incisions %-inch 
on each side of Median Line, 4 inches long and parallel to the line. 



26 



Animal Castration 



instruments and operator's hands prepared, the scrotal incision is 
made by grasping both testicles in the left hand and with two bold 
strokes of the knife cut through skin of scrotum and testicular 
coverings without hesitation. Expose both testicles to view. The 
larger the incision the better the results. They should not be less 
than 3i/o to 4 inches long and about % to 1 inch on each side of 
the raphe ("median line") and parallel to it (see Fig. 14). 

The testicles are now exposed. Grasp one of them with the left 
hand, being careful not to touch the cord above where it is to be 
severed. Place the emasculator on the cord, being careful to see 
1 hat the crimping side is next to the scrotum. Now lift the testicle 
upwards at direct right angles to the animal by making from two 
to three pounds — depending upon size of horse — tension on the 
cord, at the same time pushing the emasculator well down against 
the scrotum and at right angles to the cord, after which close 
the instrument quickly and firmly until the cord and all its cover- 
ings are severed as close to the scrotum as possible. (See Fig. 15.) 




15— Severing Spermatic Cord with the Emasculator. A, Left Testicle; 
B, Right Testicle; C, Emasculator Applied to Spermatic Cord. 



Animal Castration 



27 



As soon as the cord is severed quickly release it and hasten to 
remove the opposite testicle. It is a useless waste of time and 
energy to allow the cord to remain in the instrument for several 
minutes as some operators advocate. The quicker the cord is 
released the less the pain and the quicker the blood will clot 
about mouth of artery. By the time the jaws of the emasculator 
have come together the instrument has done all for the cord that 
it can possibly do. Why procrastinate in removing it ? 

By reference to Fig. 16 you will observe the correct position 
of the emasculator on cord; also exactly what structures are 
severed. 




Fig. 16 — Spermatic Cord and its Coverings Severed with the Emasculator. 

F, Left Hand of Operator; G, Right Hand of Operator; H, Emasculator; 

I, Body of Epididymus; J, Tunica Vaginalis; K, Incised Portion 

of Tunica Vaginalis Retracted on Cord; L, Spermatic Cord. 

The all too common practice of "cord dissection" is also an 
unnecessary and uncalled for waste of the operator's time and 



28 Animal Casteation 

energy to say nothing of the additional pain inflicted upon the 
patient as a result of prolonged surgical interference. 

After Cart and Treatment. — A small per cent of stallions after 
castration will become unusually and uncomfortably restless and 
suffer what appears to be excruciating pain. Sometimes this pain 
is inter-abdominal and sometimes not. In such cases Fluid Ex- 
trad Cannabis Indica should be administered in ounce doses at 
two-hour intervals. The animal should be frequently observed 
for appearance of secondary hemorrhage and other sequelae 
which may arise. The diet should be limited, and plenty of exer- 
cise allowed. Best to run at pasture during recovery and con- 
valescence. Endeavor to keep them away from stable and barn- 
yard manure. If the lips of the incisions should adhere together 
to the extent of stopping free drainage from the scrotum, the 
pails should be thoroughly washed and reopened by forcing one 
or more clean fingers through the scrotal incisions. In some in- 
stances it becomes necessary to "open up" every two days for six 
or seven days. However, so long as the wounds are draining 
••opening up" is unnecessary. 

After castration it is not necessary to protect stallions, colts 
and mules from flies, as this class of animals prevent "fly con- 
tamination" of the scrotal wounds by the free and well-directed 
use of their tails. Even in the midst of "fly time" we never have 
maggots develop in their serotinus. 

Contrary to the teachings of some, the author's experience would 
indicate that warm showers and even rains on animals after cas- 
tration are not harmful and are to be greatly preferred over 
allowing the animals to remain in the barn and barnyard in con- 
stant danger of wound contamination from manure, dirt, etc. 

Treatment of the various sequelae of castration will be taken 
up in subsequent pages. 

Prognosis- Tinier parallel conditions and surroundings there 
appears to be vht little or no more danger in castrating aged 
stallions than colts. However, on the other hand, when we face the 
fact thai a large percent uf sta 11 ions a re a If eeted with cord, scrotal, 

ticular and other diseases which must be taken into considera- 
tion in comparing the danger of castrating stallions with that of 
colts v«- are constrained to slate the danger to old stallions far 
i hat of younger animals. 



Animal Castration 



29 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION IN STANDING POSTURE. 

Objects and Indications — See page 14. 

Age — Any time after testicle has descended into the scrotum, 
preferably in aged stallions. 

Season — See page 14. 

Best raint — A well-made and property applied twitch in the 
hands of a fearless and physically strong assistant. 

Instruments — 1. Emasculator. (See Figs. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8.) 
2. Knife. It is necessary to have a knife with a sharp point 
and devoid of "belly" in order that it may be easily thrust into 
the testicle. Eobinson's Castrating Knife (Fig. 17) and Wil- 
liams' Castrating Knife (modified) (Fig. 18) are probably the 
most satisfactory ones for performing this operation. 




Fi| 



-Robinson's Knife. 




Fig. 18— Williams' Castrating Knife (Modified). 

The extremely sharp point, short cutting surface and roughened 
handles of the Robinson knife are its meritorious features. The 
author's modification of the Williams castrating knife makes 
it a desirable instrument for castrating in the standing posture. 
It will be observed by comparing this knife with the original 
Williams' (Fig. 2) that the " belly" has been ground out and 
the point sharpened in order to facilitate thrusting it into the 
testicle. 

Anatomy — See pages 19-21. 



30 Animal Castkation 

Warn hi g — Before undertaking to operate take the time and 
precaution to satisfy yourself on the following points: 

1. That the animal is not of a disposition or temperament 
which would make operating in the standing posture counter- 
indicated. 

2. That the testicle is actually in the scrotum. 

3. That no hernia is present. 

4. That the animal is not affected with those local diseases of 
the scrotum, testicle or cord which would counter-indicate the 
operation. 

5. That he is not suffering from any specific constitutional 
disease whieh would cause the operation of castration by any 
method to hazard his life. 

6. That you have a dependable — preferably an experienced — 
assistant in charge of the twitch and be sure the twitch is a 
good one. 

Stt rili nil ion of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
See page 24. 

Pn paration of Patient — At first thought it would be considered 
proper to disinfect the field of operation by some form of wash- 
ing with one of the many excellent antiseptic preparations. How- 
ever, experience and close observation lead me to state that the 
advisability and practicability of undertaking the disinfection of 
the tield of operation at this particular juncture — after the twitch 
Ls applied — is, to say the most of it, a debatable question. Au- 
septic or even antiseptic surgery would suggest it, but the author 
is willing to chance running the gauntlet of criticism by here 
going on record as opposing disinfection of the operative field. 
His only reason for so doing is simply on account of the fact 
that it' a man is to do a satisfactory and successful operation with 
the animal in the standing posture it is imperative that the opera- 
tion begin as soon as the twitch is applied and end at the earliest 
sible moment, otherwise the twitch as an implement of sub- 
jection is nol a success and, of course, the violent struggles and 
efforts to escape on pari of the animal would make the operation 
a failure. I realize that in making the above statement I "run 
counter" to some eminent authority, but since I have never yet 
a single successful operator on stallions in the standing pos- 



Animal Castration 



ture who procrastinated to the extent of disinfecting the field 
of operation immediately prior to operating I am ready and will- 
ing to suffer the consequences. Such procedure is not practicable, 
neither is it necessary or even desirable. If the operator's hands 
are clean and his instruments sterile, there is not near the danger 
of septic infection from the unwashed scrotum as there is from a 
bunglesome and imperfect operation on account of struggles on 
the part of the animal occasioned by delay in beginning and finish- 
ing the operation. 

Operative Technique — With the twitch applied and the animal 
forced into the corner of a box stall or fence the operator ap- 
proaches from the left side — if he be right-handed — at the same 
time instructs the assistant, who is holding the twitch, to at all 
hazards keep the animal forced well back into the corner. The 
operator stands slightly out of the range of a kick with his head 
and shoulders firmly pressed into the left flank of the animal. 
(See Fig. 19.) 




Fig. 19 — Side View Showing Position of Patient and Operator Castrating in 

the Standing Posture. 



1 



32 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 20 — Posterior View of Stallion While Undergoing Castration in Standing Posture. 
A, Scrotum; B, Knife; C, Left Hand; D, Right Hand. 

Willi the Left hand firmly grasp the scrotum above both testicles, 
at the same time do not underestimate the strength of the cremas- 
ter muscles. 

Expect to hold nil to your scrotal grasp regardless of the ma- 
neuvers or antics of the animal. Since you have already agreed 
with your assistant to hold the scrotum as long as he holds the 
twitch you are honor bound to do so, and by so doing you will 
come out victorious in nineteen out of twenty attempts. With 



Animal Castration 



33 




Fig. 21 — Side View with Animal in Standing Posture Showing Positions of Right 
Hand, Knife, Left Hand and Scrotum Prior to Making Incisions. Observe that the knife 
is thrust into the testicle well forward on the scrotum. The incision is made by a single 
sweep of the knife backwards. 

knife in right hand begin well forward on scrotum and with two 
quick bold sweeps of the knife make backward slashes which will 
expose, or a better term would be "drop," both testicles from 
the scrotum before you turn loose. These slashes should be 
parallel to the raphe or median line. Now with the emasculator 
which is handed you by a second assistant, or better still carried 
in a specially constructed pocket in your overalls, sever the sper- 
matic cords as high up in the flank as possible, after which release 
the animal. If you have been dexterous and have not "loafed 
on your job" you have consumed the whole of six to ten seconds' 
time. However, if you have been engaged as long as fifteen or 
twenty seconds you need have no remorse of conscience, as often- 
times it takes — what otherwise would be considered a fairly good 
veterinary surgeon — as long as twenty minutes to finally succeed, 
after much effort and a great fight, in removing as many as two 
testicles from the scrotum of a stallion in the standing posture, 
and some of them even after graduation and many years' ex- 



3-1- Animal Castration 

perience in practice cannot do it at all. Console yourself with 
the thought that there are others. 

Care and Treatment — See page 28. 

Prognosis — See page 28. 

Sequelae— See under proper heading in subsequent pages. 

Advantages of Operating in Standing Posture — (1) Conserva- 
tion of time and energy on the part of the operator, as it is pos- 
sible for an experienced and dexterous operator to castrate a 
stallion in the standing position in six to fifteen seconds' time, 
provided the animal behaves well. Whereas in the recumbent 
posture it requires from six to fifteen minutes to cast, tie and 
castrate. It is much easier on the operator to castrate in the 
standing posture as less work and exertion are required. (2) 
Safety and comfort to the patient, since the danger of casting 
and tying is obviated and the animal is not exerted or "heated 
up" near to the extent which he would be were he cast, tied and 
castrated in the recumbent posture. (3) By castrating in the 
standing posture — provided same is done with dexterity — the sur- 
geon makes a favorable and lasting impression upon his client, 
an impression which will "not wear off." (4) Since the operator 
is not called upon to handle dirty ropes, etc immediately before 
operating and the operative field itself is not on or in close prox- 
imity to the manure and dirt — as is the case in recumbent posi- 
tion — there is no doubt but what less wound contamination takes 
place in standing method. 

Disadvantages — (1) Danger to the operator has been heralded 
to the four winds of this country as argument against castrating 
stallions in the standing posture. The author's twenty years or 
more experience with operating in both the standing and recum- 
benl postures leads him to believe, in fact know, that the danger 
to the operator has been highly colored and over-exaggerated with 
reference to east rating in the standing posture unless the operat- 
ing surgeon was an amateur or an extremely awkward and care- 
Less person. Of course it could not reasonably be expected that 
everyone could, even by time and practice, become an adept at 
such an undertaking. In order to he a success it is necessary for 
the operator to possess a level head, a steady nerve, plenty of self- 
fidence, and more than average courage, together with a re- 



Animal Castration 35 

serve of physical strength and activity. He should retain his 
equilibrium in spite of any untoward accident or emergency which 
may chance to take place. Good judgment is never amiss at any 
stage of the operation. The author has never been kicked or in- 
jured in any way while castrating stallions in the standing pos- 
ture. He cannot say as much in relating his experience operating 
in the recumbent posture, for many is the time when he has re- 
ceived the kick while applying the hobble straps and a few while 
releasing the animal. (2) Difficulty of securing the testicles has 
been urged against the standing operation. Such embarrassment 
is never encountered if the testicle has descended into the scrotum 
and the mere fact of the testicle not being in the scrotum is a 
counter-indication to operating in the standing posture. By all 
means and at all hazards cast this class of animals and castrate 
them in the recumbent posture. (3) Prolapse of bowel or mesen- 
tery from the scrotal incision on account of previously existing 
scrotal or inguinal hernia. A careful manual examination of the 
scrotal region prior to operating would obviate such embarrass- 
ment to the operator and danger to the patient. If you decide 
to operate in the standing posture make it routine practice to 
examine the scrotum prior to operation. (4) Impossibility of 
operating upon many wild and vicious animals. We must admit 
that every animal cannot be castrated in the standing posture, and 
foolish indeed would the surgeon be who would undertake such 
a hazardous and impossible task. If you encounter such an animal, 
have no hesitancy in casting and operating in the recumbent pos- 
ture. Do not attempt the dangerous, the impracticable or the 
impossible. Exercise a little good judgment here as well as else- 
where in the daily affairs of life. 



36 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER II. 

CASTRATION OF THE COLT. 

Definition — What is here meant by castration of colts is un- 
sexing male animals of the equine species less than twenty months 
of age. 

Objects and Indications — Same as stallion. (See page 14.) 

Age — The testicle does not nsnally descend into the scrotum 
to a noticeable degree until the colt is at least eight or ten months 
old. From the standpoint of danger the earlier the operation 
the safer. From the viewpoint of development and symmetry it 
is not well to operate too early. Viewing the problem from every 
angle, the preferable age at which to castrate a colt is ten to twelve 
months. However, it may be done earlier or even later. 

Season — Spring and early fall. 

Preparation — Same as stallion. (See page 14.) 

Restraint — Since colts should usually be castrated in the re- 
cumbent posture — primarily on account of the uncertainty of de- 
scent of testicle into scrotum — it becomes necessary to cast and 
tie them. Of all the casting harness and hobbles used for this 
class of operation there is no doubt but what the "Miles' Colt 
Hobbles" possess many advantages over all others. Hence the 
M Lies method of casting eolts is recommended and will be described. 

"Farmer" Mites' Method of Casting a Colt — Fig. 22 represents 
the Miles' colt hobbles applied (first position). The hobbles of 
Miles' consist of four loop hobbles and a main rope. These are of 
the loop variety. The material used in making the loops may be 
either rawhide (plaited), leather, or rope. These hobbles are each 
from fifteen to eighteen inches long and are applied by looping. 
The main rope is three-fourths inch cotton, and eighteen feet long. 



Animal Castration 



37 




Fig. 22 — Miles' Colt Hobbles Applied— First Position. 

Upon one end is a two-inch metal "D." Tins main rope is also 
used as the master hobble. It will be observed that there is one 
hobble rope on each hind pastern and two hobble ropes on off 
fore leg — one around pastern and the other below the knee. The 
main rope is applied around pastern of near fore leg (F). It is 
now passed across through hobble ring on off fore pastern (K), 
then backward to off hind (L), thence across to near hind (M), 
and back to hobble ring (N) below off knee. The object of this 
arrangement of the ropes (two hobbles on off fore leg) is that 
when traction is made on free end of main rope (O) the off fore 
foot is raised or lifted off the ground. This in itself unbalances 
an animal and puts it to a decided disadvantage, besides by lift- 
ing the off fore foot the animal will go down on the shoulder of 
that side and will in all probability receive an easy fall. The 
animal is cast as illustrated in Fig. 23 (second position), and 
secured by taking two or more half hitches with the main rope 
around uppermost hind pastern. This is done by an assistant. 
The operator stands opposite the assistant and behind the animal 



38 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 23 — Miles' Colt Hobbles — Second Position. 




Fig. 24— .Miles' Colt Hobbles— Third Position. 



Animal Castbation 39 

and is handed the main rope (W) by the assistant (after it is 
fixed about the upper hind pastern). The rope is carried over 
the loins and under the colt, thence to the lower hind pastern. 
Now by rolling colt on his back (Fig. 24, third position) and mak- 
ing downward pressure on the off hind foot with the left hand, at 
the same time drawing the rope tight by upward pull with the 
right hand, the hocks are flexed and all four feet brought down 
close to the abdomen. 

The Miles' method affords us a light, portable, strong, con- 
venient, safe, and in every respect an efficient and satisfactory 
means of casting and securing the colt. The colt is held balanced 
in the dorsal position by an assistant on each side, in which posi- 
tion the field of operation is accessible and extremely convenient, 
and so long as the colt is balanced on back he is absolutely helpless. 

Instruments — (1) Emasculator: same as stallion (see Figs. 5, 
6, 7, 8, 12 and 13). (2) Knife: The knife recommended for colt 
castration is "Farmer" Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). Many hook 




Fig. 25— "Farmer" Miles' All-Metal Stiff Handle Hook Castrating Knife. 

knives of improper design and inferior construction are on the 
market ; on this account it is well for the reader to know the exact 
essentials of a properly designed hook knife. The main essential 
is that the cutting surface of the blade be at an angle of 45 degrees 
to the handle and that the cutting surface be sharp up to the 
handle. It is necessary that the blade cut, not tear. With a blade 
thus constructed good work can be done. The blades with a de- 
cided hook are never satisfactory. Such knives drag or tear 
through the tissues instead of cut. Avoid them. To the beginner 
a hook knife is awkward to handle ; however, after some practice 
he usually finds it to be an indispensable instrument. 

Anatomy — Same as stallion. (See pages 19-21.) 

Warning — Same as stallion. (See page 23.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
Same as stallion. (See page 24.) 



40 



Animal Castration 



Operative Technique — With the colt cast and tied and balanced 
on his back (Dorsal position) by one or more assistants (see Fig. 
25), the scrotum, hands of the operator, etc., disinfected, the ani- 
mal is now ready for operation. 




Pig. 26 Castrating the Colt. 9, Left Hand; 10, Scrotum; 11, Beginning of Left 
Scrota] Incision; 12, End of Left Scrotal Incision; 13, Beginning of Right Scrotal In- 
cision; ii. End of Right Scrotal Incision; 15, Knife; 16, Right Hand. 

Proceed .-is follows: With left hand (9) grasp sheath (10) 
and with forward and upward traction stretch the scrotum to 
the extent of making it taut. With knife (15) in right hand (16) 
begin lefi incision (11-12) well forward on scrotum (10) and ex- 
tending backward for -> ] L > to 4 inches. The right incision (13-14) 



Animal Castration 



41 



is made likewise. These incisions should be parallel to each other, 
three-fourths inch on each side of the raphe or "median line" 
and parallel to it. 

The object of drawing the scrotum upwards is to form a cavity 
between the skin and subcutaneous connective tissue of scrotum 
above and the scrotal plesus of veins below. This cavity or space 
protects the scrotal plexus of veins from being knicked by point 
of the knife while the incisions are being made. Release hold on 
sheath and grasp each testicle in turn and with a knick of the 
knife open the tunica vaginalis and allow the testicles to escape. 




Fig. 27— Castrating the Colt. 17, Left Hand; IS, Testicle; 19, Spermatic Cord, 
20, Tunica Vaginalis; 21, Scrotum; 22, Emasculator; 23, Right Hand. 



42 Animal Castration 

The next step is to grasp the left testicle (18, Fig. 27) with 
the left hand (17) and draw testicle upwards — at direct right 
angles to the animal — at the same time producing from one to 
1 wo pounds traction on the cord. With the right hand (23) apply 
the emasculator (22) to the cord (19) and force instrument well 
down against the scrotum (21) in such a manner as to sever 
the spermatic cord and all of its coverings as close to the skin 
incision as possible. The right testicle is removed in like manner 
and the animal released. By reference to Fig. 16, page 24, the 
reader may observe the exact position of the emasculator on the 
cord and what structures are severed in operating. 

After Care and Treatment — Same as stallion. (See page 28.) 

Prognosis — (See page 28.) 



Animal Castration 43 



CHAPTER III. 

CASTRATION OF THE MULE. 

Objects and Indications — Since the mule is a hybrid and value- 
less for service as a breeding animal it falls to his lot to undergo 
castration without exception. Without castration — before the 
age of two years — the mule becomes exceedingly disagreeable and 
troublesome among other classes of live stock and oftentimes 
vicious and dangerous to the owner. Apparently the only object 
in castrating the mule is to cause his sexual desire to permanently 
subside to the extent of making him a useful farm animal. 

Age — "Yearlings," never later unless unavoidable. 

Season — Preferably spring. 

Preparation — Same as stallion. (See page 14.) 

Restraint — Same as colt. (See pages 36-39.) 

Instruments — Same as colt. (See page 39.) 

Anatomy — Same as stallion. (See pages 19-21.) 

Warning — Same as stallion. (See page 23.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
Same as stallion. (See page 24.) 

Operative Technique— The operative technique in mule castra- 
tion resembles in most material respects that of colt castration 
as outlined on pages 36-41. The only material difference being 
the manner in which the coverings of the spermatic cord are 
severed and the extent of them removed. 

With the mule cast, tied and balanced on his back, Dor- 
sal position (Fig. 27) he is ready for operation. The scrotal 
region and hands of operator are washed with Lysol or Cresol 
Compound IT. S. P. in the strength of one tablespoonful to the 
quart of water. With left hand (M) grasp the sheath (N) and 
with forward and upward traction stretch the scrotum until it 



44 



Animal Casteation 




Fit 



Castrating the Mule. M, Left Hand; N, Scrotum; O P, Scrotal Incision; 
Q, Knife; R, Right Hand; S, Raphe or "Median Line." 



is taut. Willi knife (Q) in right hand (R) make the two scrotal 
incisions (O, P) beginning well forward (O) and extending back- 
ward (IV) from 314 to 4 inches. These incisions should be three- 
fourths inch from and parallel to the raphe or "median line" (S). 
Release hold on sheath and -rasp each testicle in turn and with 
a knick of the knife open the tunic vaginalis and allow the testicles 
to escape. 

After the testicles are released from the tunica vaginalis one 
of them is grasped with the Left hand (T) (Fig. 29) and drawn up- 
ward at direct right angles to the body of the animal by making 
from one to two pounds traction on the cord. With the right hand 
' Y 1 a pply emasculator (Z) to the cord and force instrument down- 
ward againsl the scrotum (X) in such manner as to sever the 
spermatic cord and all of its coverings as close to the skin incision 
as possible. Sec to it that yon cut off not less than one inch of 
the tunica vaginalis in order to avoid that all too frequent sequelae 



Animal Castration 



45 




Fig. 29— Castrating the Mule. T, Left Hand; U, Testicle; V, Spermatic Cord; 
W, Tunica Vaginalis; X, Scrotum; Y, Right Hand; Z, Emasculator. 




Fig. 30 — Proper Position of the Emasculator and Relation of Testicle, Spermatic 
Cord, Tunica Vaginalis and Scrotum in Mule Castration. 



46 



Animal ( 'astration 



of mule castration, viz.: hydrocele ("water bag"), a condition 
invariably produced by severing the cord below— with mule in 
standing posture— the tunica vaginalis. Of course the opposite 
testicle is removed in like manner and the animal released. Figs. 
30 and 31 are worthy of careful study on the part of all who con- 
template castrating mules. They graphically and plainly illus- 
trate all the important essentials in handling the emasculator in 
such a manner as to avoid hydrocele ("water bag"). 




Fig. 31 — Testicle of Mule After Removal. A, Tunica Vaginalis Covering Spermatic 
Cord; B B, Incised Portion of Tunica Vaginalis Deflected on Cord. It will be observed 
that at least one inch of this tunic has been removed. C, Epididymus; D, Testes. 

After Care and Treatment — Same as stallion. (See page 28.) 
Prognosis — Same as stallion and colts. (See page 28.) 



Animal Castration 



47 



CHAPTER IV. 



COMPLICATIONS ENCOUNTERED IN CASTRATION. 



Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia {Rapture) . 

Definition — Inguinal hernia is a condition where a loop of the 
intestine and sometimes mesentery migrates or protrudes through 
the internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. (See Fig. 32.) 



.4 1 



^^L 




Fig. 32 — Inguinal Hernia (Rupture). A A, Internal Abdominal Wall; B, Internal 
Abdominal Ring; C, Spermatic Cord; D D, Intestine; E, Loop of Intestine in tbe 
Inguinal Canal; F, Spermatic Cord in the Canal; G, Scrotum. 

Scrotal hernia is a condition where a loop of the intestine and 
sometimes mesentery migrates or protrudes through the internal 



48 



Animal Castration 



abdominal ring, inguinal canal and external abdominal ring into 
the scrotum. (See Fig. 33.) 




Fig. 33— Scrotal Hernia (Rupture). A A, Internal Abdominal Wall; B, Internal 
Abdominal Ring; C. Spermatic Cord; D D, Intestine; E, Loop of Intestine in the 
Scrotum; F, Spermatic Cord in Inguinal Canal; G, Scrotum; H, Testicle. 

Most all scrotal hernias were originally inguinal hernias. 

Diagnosis — The presence or absence of hernia is determined by 
carefully feeling the scrotum and close scrutiny of its size and 
shape. It is oftentimes — in fact most times — impossible to diag- 
nose inguinal hernia except on post-mortem examination. 

Indications for Operation — The mere fact that the presence 
of hernia lias been determined is sufficient indication for opera- 
tion unless there be a good reason for postponing surgical inter- 
ference until a later dale. Tn all instances the operation necessi- 
sacrifice of the testicle and of course since this be true the 



Animal Castration 



49 



ideal time to operate is at time of castration. If the surgeon is 
aware of the presence of hernia and is prepared for the opera- 
tion, then the reduction of hernia by surgical interference is a 
comparatively easy task. However, if the reverse is true — no 
knowledge of its existence and non-preparedness — then he is up 
against what is referred to as "the real thing," an attitude most 
of us have been caught in to our chagrin and sorrow. So long 
as hernia does not interfere with the health and usefulness of a 
stallion in service it ma} T not be advisable to operate. The ideal 
age to operate is eight to twelve months. Oftentimes scrotal 
hernias in "sucklings" disappear spontaneously before they are 
a year old. 

Restraint — The animal should be cast and tied, and placed in 
the dorsal position. For colts the ordinary "Farmer" Miles' 
method of casting (Figs. 22, 23 and 24, pages 36-39) is ideal. 
For older animals more secure restraint is necessary, such as 
Knowles' Casting Harness, described and illustrated on pages 
55-57. 

Instruments — (1) Emasculator, Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8. (2) Miles' 
hook knife, Fig. 25. (3) Curved probe point Bistoury. (4) Me- 
dium size curved needle. (5) Chromicized catgut (fourteen day) 
largest size. (6) Needle holder (Richter's), Fig. 34. (7) Small 
trocar and canula. (8) Curved scissors (six-inch), Fig. 35. (9) 
Haemostatic forceps. 




Fig. 34. — Richter's Needle Holder. 



50 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 35 — Curved Scissors (6-inch). 

Preparation — Empty the intestinal tract by withholding food 
for twenty-four to thirty hours. If constipated, oil in sufficient 
amount to purge several days before operating. 

SU rilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
Sec page 24. 

Operative Technique — Cleanse and disinfect field of operation 
by washing with Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. in the strength 
of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. With Miles' hook 
knife cautiously make incision into scrotum, being careful not to 
open the tunica vaginalis. The scrotal incision should begin well 
forward and extend backward for five to six inches parallel to 
the raphe or "median line" and one to one and a half inches 
from it. 

The sac (tunica vaginalis) containing the testicle should now 
be isolated or detached by blunt dissection and tearing up the 
inguinal canal to within about two inches of the internal abdom- 
inal ring. 

Before proceeding further all blood vessels of sufficient size 
should be ligated. The sac (tunica vaginalis) should now be 
opened ;ind ihe testicle taken charge of and held with one hand 
while the loo]) of intestine (.1 ) is gradually replaced through the 
interna] inguinal ring (P) (See Fig. 36) into the abdominal 
cavity. The testicle itself is now removed with the emasculator 
in the usual way. The stump of spermatic cord (K) is now placed 
into the abdominal cavity and the tunica vaginalis (L) ligated 
with chromicized catgut (fourteen day) largest size (M) as close 
to tin- internal abdominal ring as possible. The loose portion of 
the tunica vaginalis is now removed by severing below the liga- 



Animal Castration 



51 




Fig. 36 — Diagramatic Sketch of Operation for Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia (Rupture). 
I, Internal Abdominal Wall; J, Loop of Intestine Replaced Into the Abdominal Cavity; 
K, Stump of Spermatic Cord from Which the Testicle Has Been Removed; L, Tunica 
Vaginalis in Close Proximity to the Internal Abdominal Ring; M, Ligature; N, Inguinal 
Canal; P, Internal Abdominal Ring. 

ture. Sometimes it becomes necessary to enlarge the internal 
abdominal ring before the hernia can be reduced. This can be 
readily done with probe point bistoury passed np the inguinal 
canal. If loop of bowel happens to be distended by gas it should 
be punctured with a small trocar and canula. 

The scrotum may be packed with sterile gauze if considered 
advisable. However, scrotum packing is not usually necessary. 

A-fter Care and Treatment — Same as castration. (See page 28.) 

Castration of the Cryptorcliid and Mon orchid ("Ridgling"). 

Definition — A cryptorcliid is an animal in which both testicles 
have failed to descend into the scrotum. 

A monorchid is an animal in which only one testicle has failed 
to descend into the scrotum. 

Classification — Since the degree of descent of the testicle varies 
in different animals it becomes necessary to classify "ridglings" 



52 Animal Castration 

into at least three groups or classes. They were formerly classi- 
fied by "Farmer" Miles as— 

No. 1. Testicles not in scrotum but in inguinal canal. Such 
testicles ran be felt on deep pressure. ("Low flanker.") 

No. 2. Testicles high up in inguinal canal — too high to be felt 
even upon deep pressure. ("High flanker.") 

No. 3. Testicles inside abdominal cavity. 

No. 4. Testes inside abdominal cavity with part of the sper- 
matic cord and sometimes epydidimus protruded through internal 
abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. 

Nil 5. Pathological ("diseased") testicles. 

While i he above classification by Miles is not what may be termed 
anatomically and surgically scientific, it was nevertheless valu- 
able in arriving at the exact status of a "Ridgling" case. While 
acknowledging the value of the work done by my first teacher — 
•• Parmer" Miles — and the usefulness of his classification of ridg- 
ling horses into Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, nevertheless such classification 
was crude and in this day of progress and development would not 
pass muster Prom a scientific viewpoint. The anatomical classifi- 
cal ion possesses many advantages and will be adhered to in hand- 
ling this subject. 

Miles' No. 1 cannot properly be classed as a cryptorchid (" Ridg- 
ling ") in any respect. 

(a) Supra scrotal is a condition where the testicle with sper- 
matic cord is in the inguinal canal, however too high to be felt 
even on deep pressure. ("High flanker.") This is the class 
oftenesl encountered in young animals and corresponds with 
Miles' No. 2. The testicle is usually firm and fairly well developed. 
[ntra-abdominal is a condition where the testicles are lo- 
cated inside the abdominal cavity. This is a genuine cryptorchid 
("Ridgling") in fact as well as in name. In such cases the tes- 
ticles are usually soft and flabby and not of the characteristic 
shape met with in stallions. This variety corresponds to Miles' 
No. 3. 

(c) [ntra-inguinal is a condition in which the testes is inside 
abdominal nw itv with a portion of the spermatic cord and some- 
Time^ epididymus high up in the inguinal canal. (See Fig. 50, 



Animal Castration 53 

page 67.) This corresponds to Miles' No. 4. Such cases are 
usually very confusing to the operator; especially is this true if 
the operator belongs to the amateur fraternity. 

(d) Anomalous cryptorchids is a condition wherein abnormally 
developed or ''diseased" testicles are encountered, viz.: hyper- 
trophy, cysts — including dermoid and dentigeous — solid tumors 
(sarcocelous), atrophy and adhesions of testicle to the parietal 
peritoneum, etc. Some of the above enumerated anomalies and 
curiosities encountered in cyptorchid castration complicate the 
operative technique and have a tendency to cause the operator no 
little anxiety, annoyance and oftentimes embarrassment. 

Objects and Indications — All "Bidgling" should be castrated 
for the principal reason that they are sterile as breeding animals 
and a public and private nuisance among other classes of live 
stock. Some of them even acquire viciousness, in which event 
they are dangerous both to the owner and other animals. The 
mere fact that the testicle is inside the abdominal cavity, small, 
undeveloped and sterile does not in any way reduce the sexual 
desire of its possessor. On the other hand it appears that sexual 
desire is abnormally stimulated. A horse with undescended tes- 
ticle is as undesirable as a mare affected with nymphomania. 
They are useless as service or breeding animals. There is no argu- 
ment why they should not be castrated and every reason why 
they should. 

Diagnosis — By all means secure an accurate history of the sub- 
ject if possible, as this is a necessary adjunct to operating satis- 
factorily and successfully. Ascertain the following: 

1. If any previous unsuccessful attempt has been made to 
operate. 

2. If either testicle has been successfully removed. If so, on 
which side was it located and how long since removal? 

The information obtained is not always trustworthy, so as an 
additional precaution the operator is not justified in proceeding 
with the operation until he has personally carefully examined the 
animal. 

1. Search scrotum carefully for cicatrix ("scar") of former 
operation. If the operation was performed by either the ecraseur 



54 Animal Castration 

or emasculator — some time previously — there may be no distinct 
scar present. 

2. Examine inguinal canal for stump of cord. If the previous 
operation was performed at an early age the stump of cord may 
be atrophied to such an extent that its presence in the canal cannot 
be determined. 

If after questioning the owner or attendant and examining 
the patient you are still in doubt as to which testicle is unde- 
scended, the proper method of procedure would be to invade the 
left, as four-fifths of all monorchicls are leftsided. If you should 
make a mistake and invade the wrong side, proceed at once to 
turn the patient over and go in on the other side. The diagnostic 
value of rectal exploration at any time is doubtful. But such 
rectal examination immediately before operating is bad practice 
and not justified. 

Age — Ordinarily the question of age is not one left to the choice 
of the operator. He is forced to take them at any age he finds 
them. It is not well to operate upon a ridgling until he is at least 
two years old. The ideal age is three years, as at this time the 
animal is larger and better developed, which, of course, means 
that there is much more room in the inguinal canal and groin in 
which to work. Besides, at three years old the abdominal wall is 
thicker and stronger and there is less liability of rupturing the 
internal and external oblique abdominal muscles with the operat- 
ing hand. Ridglings at any age above three years are acceptable 
for operation. 

Season — Preferably spring and early fall. 

Preparation — The main object to be attained in preparing the 
patient is to have an unirritated and empty alimentary (intestinal) 
tract at time of operation. This is usually accomplished by with- 
holding food for thirty hours before castration. No physic should 
be allowed, as an empty bowel irritated by purgative medication 
is a predisposing cause of dangerous sequelae such as colic, peri- 
tonitis, volvulus, etc. An empty alimentary tract is desirable on 
account of affording greater intra-abdominal room and lessening 
the possibility of bowel protrusion through the inguinal canal. 

Restraint — There are many kinds and stvles of restraint har- 



Animal Castration 



55 



ness and ropes with which a ridgling horse may be cast and tied 
satisfactorily. The main object to be constantly borne in mind 
is the fact that first of all the restraint must be safe and secure. 
The animal must be tied in such a manner that the latitude for 
movement is minimized as much as possible. Position must also 
be considered. One of the simplest and most satisfactory casting 
harness for castration of "Ridglings" is that of Knowles'. The 
Knowles' harness have been used for several years by the author 
with satisfactory results. 



■^< 




-W * 


. 


4 •- Hr 


/ *wy*w 




* Ws ■ 


^^^"^ — \1 






^Mfj^M^^MMttHR '/'»jB| 


1^HS| 


! 


Bgfc? i ' ' 




! ,. "% 


*%!&■ 




t ; \^>'y,~^~ C \ : ~' : ' . /;,::.; >;-. -\ ':•:/;■: 


. 



Fig. 37 — Knowles' Casting Harness Applied. 

The casting and securing harness illustrated in Fig. 37 were 
designed by W. F. Knowles. These harness are made in large and 
small sizes. The large size fits horses weighing 900 pounds or more,, 
and small size harness fits those of from 400 to 900 pounds. 

This apparatus is light, compact, and convenient to carry. 
When properly used it affords ample restraint for all ordinary 
purposes. It consists of a flat webbing collar, two main ropes 
and two hobbles. The collar (B) is in two sections ; each section is 
connected on each side of the horse by heavy double rings, one of 
which is of special design to afford easy passage of the two main 
ropes (D, G). The ropes (D, G) are each five-eighths inch in 



56 



Animal Castration 



diameter and thirty feet long. One end is securely fastened into 
the inner ring of the webbing breast collar. Around each pastern 
(E, H) is placed a webbing hobble. In each end of this webbing 
hobble is fixed a specially constructed metal, rounded "D" through 
which the ropes pass. To apply this harness the breast collar is 
placed over the head and adjusted to the shoulders. One section 
fits over the withers and the other section is dropped down below 
point of shoulders (K). The free end of the ropes (D, G) pass 
downward to and through each "D" of webbing hobble, then up- 
ward to and through "D" of breast collar. If desired to cast 
horse on off side, the off fore foot is to be raised and secured by 
some form of knee strap. The free end of main rope on near side 
should be carried backward over back and held by two assistants. 
The free end of main rope (I) on off side should be carried for- 
ward, well in front of the animal, and there held by two assistants. 
T<> cast the animal traction is made on each rope, and at the same 
time the animal is forced backward a step by assistant in charge 
of the head. The head is pulled to the right and the animal is 
cast on off side. 




Fig. 38— Animal east and Secured with Knowles' Harness. 

In order to securely tie the animal after he is cast (see Fig. 38) 
the main ropes ( N", N) are fastened around pasterns by two half 



Animal Castration 



57 



hitches. They are then passed behind hocks (P, P) in figure 8 
fashion a couple of times, after which fix them about pasterns (O, 
O) by half hitches. The opposite side is secured likewise after 
the animal is turned over. See to it that the hocks are completely 
flexed and that the feet are not extended too far forward. After 
the hind legs are secured apply knee strap (M) to off fore leg. 
The Miles' spreaders (Fig. 39) are now applied, after which the 
animal is secured for operation. 

Whlie I do not dispute the possibility of castrating a "Riclg- 
ling" horse on the operating table, nevertheless its practicability 
is seriously doubted. 




Fig. 39 — Miles' Ridgling Spreaders. 

Position — Lateral recumbent position with side of undescended 
testicle uppermost. Hocks completely flexed. Hind feet not too 
far forward and thigh complete abducted. 

Instruments and Equipment — (1) Miles' all-metal hook castrat- 
ing knife (see Fig. 25). (2) Peritoneum perforator (see Fig. 40). 




Fig. 40 — Peritoneum Perforator. 



58 Animal Casteation 

The peritoneum perforator referred to here is a piece of nickel- 
plated steel wire sixteen inches long with handle on one end and 
right angle hook on the other. This hook is one inch in length 
and its perforating surface is slightly dulled. The function of 
this instrument, as its name indicates, is to make the opening 
through the thin abdominal wall. 

(3) Ecraseur. The most satisfactory ecraseur yet offered to 
the veterinary profession in this country is shown in Fig. 41. 
This instrument is strong, well constructed and its design ideal. 
The advantages of this instrument over others consists of an ar- 




Fig. 41 — Dunn's Ecraseur. 

rangement by which, with the thumb and linger of one hand (the 
other hand left free) the ecraseur can be held, and the slack of 
the chain taken up at once without drawing out the screw or 
lengthening the instrument. 

The thumb-piece, on the end of which the female thread is cut, 
works automatically, engaging the screw at all times until re- 
leased by the pressure of the thumb; this insures perfect safety, 
as the chain cannot slip from imperfect or careless adjustment, 
which often occurs in other ecraseurs. It is also thoroughly asep- 
tic, as it can be taken apart without the aid of a screwdriver in 
a few seconds' time by a half turn of the collar near the handle. 
Made with or withoul the improved head. Get the one with im- 
proved head. 

(4) Surgeon's needle threaded for purpose of suturing up 
scrotum after packing. 

(5) Sterile gauze to use in packing scrotum. 

(6) Carbolized olive oil for lubricating parts. 

(7) Antiseptic solution in plentiful amount. As a precaution 
against some untoward accident or emergency it is well to fortify 
yourself by having in reserve the following: (1) Vulsellum for- 



Animal Castration 59 

ceps (see Fig. 55) ; (2) haemostatic forceps; (3) extra ecraseur; 
(4) needles containing ligatures and sutures; (5) trocar and 
canula (ordinary horse size). 

Anatomy — Same as for stallion castration. (See pages 19-21.) 

Warning — Before beginning to operate, diagnose the case if 
possible. Examine inguinal and scrotal regions for hernia (rup- 
ture), abnormalities in development, diseases of the scrotum, etc. 
Look out for constitutional diseases which would have a tendency 
to endanger the life of animal or interfere with convalescense. 
These diseases are strangles, influenza, pneumonia, pleurisy, bron- 
chitis, catarrhal fever, purpura hemorrhagica, etc. 

Don't thrust your whole hand through the abdominal wall, be- 
cause your index and second finger will do enough damage to 
the wall and besides they are ample inside the abdomen. 

Don't explore the whole abdominal cavity in an effort to locate 
the testicle. You wouldn't recognize it if you found it. Better 
feel for the spermatic cord — something you can recognize if you 
feel it — which is within two inches of the abdominal incision, pro- 
vided you puncture the abdominal wall at the right place. Let 
the testicle take care of itself until later. 

Take your time and do the operation well at all hazards. 

Be careful in casting and tying and above all else don't get 
excited. Remember that it is not you that is being operated upon. 
It is the horse, and he does not even belong to you. If you should 
happen to make a failure, remember that you are not the only 
one whom such a misfortune has befallen. 

Sterilisation of Instruments — Same as for castration of the stal- 
lion. (See page 24.) 

Cleansing and Disinfecting the Field of Operation — Of all the 
operations in the domain of veterinary surgery where cleanliness 
stands out prominently as being pre-eminently important it is in 
"Ridgling" castration. With tincture of green soap, warm water 
and scrub brush thoroughly wash — by diligent scrubbing — the in- 
guinal and scrotal regions, also inner aspect of the thighs. After 
washing, sponge parts with absolute alcohol. Then paint scrotum 
with tincture iodine and allow it time to dry before making in- 
cisions. 



60 



Animal Castration 



Operative Technique as Applied in Castrating the Intra-Abdom- 
inal "Ridgling" {Miles' No. 3). 
(a) Scrotal Incision — With rubber glove on left hand (R) and 
Miles' hook castrating knife (T) in the right hand (S), the point 
of sheath (V) is grasped with the left (R) and traction made 
upward and forward. (See Fig. 42.) Beginning well forward 
«»n scrotum the knife is drawn backward, making incision (U) 
through skin, subcutaneous connective tissue and dartos only. 
This incision (U) should be five inches long, parallel to and one 




Fig. 42— Making Scrotal Incision. R. Left Hand; S, Right Hand; T, Knife; 
1'. Scrotal Incision: V, Point of Sheath. 

inch to the side of raphe or "median Line." (See Figs. 42 and 43.) 
When the incision or Incisions are completed remove rubber glove 
from previously washed Left hand and. it' necessary, rewash both 
hands before proceeding further. 

(b) Opening and Entering the Inguinal Canal — With the four 
fingers of each hand, placed hack to back, separate, by tearing, the 
tissues down to the external abdominal ring, which is the entrance 
to inguinal canal. The next step is to lubricate the scrotal wound 



Animal Castration 



61 



and operating hand with carbolized olive oil. Then proceed, by fix- 
ing fingers in shape of cone (see Fig. 44) and using a limited 




Fig. 43 — Scrotal Incisions. 

amount of force, to open and enter the inguinal canal until the 
internal abdominal ring is reached. Remember the direction of 
the canal is upwards and backwards. This ring is our landmark 
for site of entering the abdominal cavity. You may expect to 
find the ring at a distance of six to ten inches above the scrotal 
incision, depending, of course, on size of animal. 




Fig. 44 — Position of Fingers in Opening and Entering the Inguinal Canal. 



62 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 45 — Entering the Abdominal Cavity by Perforating the Thin Abdominal Wall. 
A, Right Hand in the Inguinal Canal; B, Peritoneum Perforator in Action; C, Incision; 
D, Left Hand Manipulating Perforator. 

(c) Entering Abdominal Cavity front Inguinal Canal — With 
the internal abdominal ring as one guide, we select a site one inch 
above and one inch in front of it, where we proceed with peri- 
toneum perforator to rupture through the thin abdominal wall, 
which at this point consists of the transversalis fascia and peri- 
toneum, as we are now above the upper border of the internal 
oblique muscle. This affords us access to the abdominal cavity. 
This perforation should not exceed one inch in length. 

(d) Locating the Spermatic Cord — With the index and second 
finger enlarge, by stretching, the abdominal perforation sufficiently 
to admit both fingers (see Pig. 4(>). The cord (C) is almost in- 
variably located within two inches of the abdominal perforation 
(F). To find the cord, pass the second finger downwards against 



Animal Castration 



63 




Fig. 46 — A Diagramatic Illustration Showing Important Facts Relative to "Ridgling" 
Castration. This and the next cut illustrate far better than words could describe some 
of the covered steps of the operation. A, Rectum; B, Cord of Right Descended Testicle; 
C, Cord of Left Undescended Testicle; D, Right Internal Abdominal Ring; E, Left In- 
ternal Abdominal Ring; F, Incision through the Abdominal Wall 1 inch above and 1 inch 
in front of the Internal Abdominal Ring. Observe index and second finger protruding 
through incision searching for Spermatic Cord. G G, Internal Abdominal Walls; H, Un- 
descended Testicle floating loose in Abdominal Cavity attached to end of the Spermatic 
Cord. 

internal abdominal wall (G) and the index finger directly forward, 
slightly upward toward center of abdominal cavity. By bringing 
these two fingers together (Fig. 47) the cord (C) is caught be- 



64 



Animal Castration 



tween them. In order to distinguish it (cord) from other ab- 
dominal viscera it is rubbed between the fingers and the vas def- 
erens— a hard, wire-like cord— is plainly felt. Nothing else in- 
side the abdominal cavity has this wire cord like feel, and when 
it is felt between the fingers the cord is positively identified. 




Fig. 47— A, Rectum; B, Cord of Right Descended Testicle; C, Cord of Left Un- 
descended Testicle; D, Right Internal Abdominal Ring; E, Left Internal Abdominal 
Ring; F, Abdominal Perforation through which is protruded index and second nnger 
of the operating hand grasping cord (C) of Undescended Testicle; G G, Internal Ab- 
dominal Walls; H, Undescended (Left) Testicle. 



Animal Castration 



65 



(e) Removing Testicle From the Abdominal Cavity — With the 
cord (C) — and identified as such — between the two fingers mod- 
erate traction is made and the unattached end of the cord con- 
taining the testicle will follow through the abdominal perforation 
(F) into the inguinal canal and out through scrotal incision. 

Removing Testicle From Cord — Grasp testicle with left hand, 
with right hand apply chain or ecraseur to cord. With two pounds 
traction on cord force the ecraseur chain well up in scrotum — at 
right angles to the cord — take up slack of chain and proceed to 
sever cord. 




Fig. 48 — Removing the Testicle from Cord. E, Testicle; F, Ecraseur. 

(f) Final Step — Wash scrotum and surrounding parts with 
antiseptic solution, being careful to remove all blood clots, etc., 
after which pack — scrotum only — using one yard sterile gauze, 



66 Animal Castration 

and suture skin incision securely with uninterrupted suture. 
Packing the scrotum cannot do any harm and there is a possi- 
bility, in fact a probability, of this precaution saving the life of 
a patient. Especially is this true should colicky pains ensue within 




Fig. 49 — Testicle of a "Ridgling" Horse. 

twelve hours after operating, in which event the rolling and tumb- 
ling of the animal would have a tendency to cause bowel protru- 
sion. As a precautionary measure I cannot too strongly recom- 
mend packing the scrotum before the animal is allowed to rise 
to his feet. If a m< >norchid, your job is completed ; if a cryptorchid, 
turn the animal over and proceed to repeat the operation on the 
other side without delay. Never attempt to remove both testicles 
from the one abdominal opening, as in doing so it is necessary to 
enlarge the opening sufficiently to admit the whole hand; such a 
large abdominal wall perforation is dangerous and such procedure 
would be considered bad practice. 

Intra-Inguinal "Ridgling." 

This is the variety in which the testicle (testes) is inside the 
abdominal <-;i\ ity while a portion of the spermatic cord and some- 
times the epydidimus is in upper part of the inguinal canal, of 
course surrounded by the tunica vaginalis. (See Fig. 50.) This 
corresponds to Miles' No. 4. 

This is the class which is calculated to confuse the inexperienced 
operator. 

Objcds and indications, age, season, preparation, restraint, posi- 
tion, instruments, anatomy, washing, sterilization of instruments, 
cleansing operator's hands and disinfection of operative Held are 
all the same as are employed in castrating the intra-abdominal 
ridgling, 



Animal Castration 



67 




Fig. 50 — Intra-Inguinal Cryptorchid (Bayer). A, Testes Inside Abdominal Cavity; 
B B, Internal Abdominal Wall; C, Spermatid Cord Inside Inguinal Canal; D, Tunica 
Vaginalis; E E, Dotted lines indicate outlines of Spermatic Cord; F, Internal Abdominal 
Ring; G, Inguinal Canal. 

Operative Technique — The incisions are made and the scrotum 
and inguinal invaded in the same manner as that employed in the 
intra-abdominal variety. 

Location of the Testicle — The testicle is located by proceeding 
carefully up the inguinal canal, at the same time making strict 
search for the tunica vaginalis containing the spermatic cord and 
sometimes the epididymus. As soon as tunic is encountered ex- 
amine it carefully in order that no mistake in diagnosis be made. 
When satisfied that you are in possession of the tunica vaginalis, 
pass hook knife up the canal sufficiently high to knick the tunic 
and allow its contents — be they what they may — to escape into the 
inguinal canal. You are now in possession of the spermatic cord 
and are justified in applying a limited amount of traction in an 
effort to bring the testicle from the abdominal cavity through the 
internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. If successful, 



68 Animal Castration 

then all that remains to be done is to sever the spermatic cord with 
the ecraseur and allow the animal to rise to his feet. Oftentimes 
the amount of traction which can safely be applied to the cord 
will not suffice to bring the testicle out of the abdominal cavity. 
The proper method of procedure in such a case is to perforate 
the abdominal wall with the peritoneum perforator (Fig. 40) one 
inch above and one inch forward of the internal abdominal ring. 
With the index and second finger in the abdominal cavity return 
the cord, and such other parts of it or the testicle as are in the 
inguinal canal, to the abdominal cavity, after which the cord can 
easily be brought through the abdominal perforation into the in- 
guinal canal and there is no way for the testicle to fail to follow. 
In other words, we make an intra-abdominal "ridgling" out of 
the intra-inguinal " ridgling" and castrate him as described in 
detail on pages 51-62. 

Supra Scrotal "Ridgling" — This is the variety where the testi- 
cle and spermatic cord are in the inguinal canal, however, too 
high up to be felt even on deep pressure ("High flanker"). This 
class is the usual one encountered in young animals, and corre- 
sponds to Miles' No. 2. 

Not being in possession of knowledge which would indicate to 
us in advance that the testicle is not actually in the abdominal 
cavity we are forced to proceed accordingly and prepare patient, 
sterilize instruments, cast and tie, disinfect field of operation, 
make scrotal incisions, invade scrotum and inguinal canal, the 
same as we would for a "ridgling" of the intra-abdominal va- 
riety. However, encountering the tunica vaginalis containing the 
testicle high up in the inguinal canal — outside of abdominal cav- 
ity — we are spared the effort and the animal the danger of per- 
forating the abdominal wall. All that is necessaryy to be done is 
to pass the hook knife up the canal, knick the tunica vaginalis, 
allow the testicle to escape, sever the cord with emasculator, and 
allow the animal to rise to his feet. 

Secondary Operation — Oftentimes a previous attempt — by an 
incompetent operator — has been made to remove an undescended 
testicle. In such cases the scrotum and groin are filled with sear 
tissue to the extent of complicating the entrance to inguinal canal 
and abdominal cavity and otherwise making the operation diffi- 
cult, unpleasant and unsatisfactory. In such cases the conva- 



Animal Castration 69 

lescence is prolonged besides the mortality is greater than it would 
have been had this unsuccessful previous attempt not been made. 
In operating upon this class of cases the scrotum is entered in 
the usual way, after which cut through and break down scar 
tissue in the canal until the internal abdominal ring is reached. 
In doing this it often becomes necessary to control profuse hemor- 
rhage by ligation. When the internal abdominal ring is reached 
we use it as a landmark and proceed to finish the operation in the 
usual manner. Such cases are referred to as "Repeats." 

(d) Anomalous "Ridgling" — This is the variety in which path- 
ological ("diseased") testicles are encountered, and corresponds 
to Miles' No. 5. The diseased conditions most often observed are 
as follows: Hypertrophy, Cysts — including dermoid, simple se- 
rous, and dentigeous varieties — Solid Tumors (Sarcocelous), etc. 
In operating upon "ridglings" belonging to this class the same 
general principles are employed as apply in castrating intra- 
abdominal "ridglings" with exception of size of the perforation 
through the abdominal wall and methods of removing the testi- 
cle therefrom. Instead of making a perforation only sufficiently 
large to admit two fingers, it is usually necessary to make one 
that will admit the whole hand. When cystic testicles are encoun- 
tered it oftentimes becomes necessary to free them of their fluid 
contents by use of trocar and canula before they can be withdrawn 
through abdominal incision. In removing large, solid tumors which 
are too voluminous to be brought down the inguinal canal then the 
flank method of operating must be resorted to. The operative tech- 
nique must be modified step by step as the circumstances and con- 
dition met justify. The operator must solve the problems as tfiey 
arise. No fixed modus operandi applicable to such pathological 
conditions can be intelligently outlined. It is "up to the individ- 
ual operator," and my best advice is for you to "go to it" and 
do your best. 

After Care and Treatment — Place animal in a sanitary, well- 
bedded box stall immediately after operation is completed. Halter 
head up in such manner as to prevent him from lying down for 
24 hours. If suffering severe pain (colicky) 1 ounce fluid extract 
Cannabis Indica may be given in capsule at 2-hour intervals, Al- 
low plenty of water, but no feed during first 12 hours. At the ex- 



70 Animal Castration 

piration of 24 hours remove packing, imhalter animal, and if 
possible turn him to pasture. Turning to pasture is advocated for 
two reasons, viz.: first, for exercise, which is a very essential part 
of the after treatment ; second, to get the patient away from the 
dirt and manure around the barnyard and stable, thus avoiding 
the greatest danger of wound contamination. 

Moderate daily exercise is essential even should it become neces- 
sary to force the patient to take it. Violent exercise is harmful, 
and is not called for at any stage of the game. Usually as soon as 
the swelling appears and the soreness develops — the very time 
they need exercise most — there is a tendency on part of the pa- 
tient to stand still in one place for hours without moving. Should 
such happen, the animal must be led in a walk at end of halter 
rein about a mile morning and night until after the eighth or 
ninth day. If lips of skin wound adhere together in such man- 
ner as to interfere with free inguinal and scrotal drainage, then 
the parts and the operator's fingers should be thoroughly washed 
and the scrotum opened, after which irrigate the wound. 

Keep bowels lax by bran mashes and green food. 

Sequelae— Septic Infection (see page 74). Tetanus (see page 
74). Abscess of Scrotum and Inguinal Canal (see page 74). 
Colic (see page 77). Prolapse of Intestine (see page 76). In- 
juries from Casting (see page 76). Peritonitis (see page 77). 
Primary and Secondary Hemorrhage (see page 79). Oedema of 
Sheath and Ventral Surface of Abdomen (see page 79). Para- 
phimosis (see page 81). Azoturia (see page 77). Schirrous Cord 
i see page 82.) 

Remarks — -If the foregoing illustrations and description of the 
"ridgling" operation are not plain and self-explanatory, then the 
author must confess that he is incapable of imparting knowledge 
or information of this character. An extra effort was purposely 
and honestly made to dispense with much superfluous "stuff" 
often termed "information" widely used by some in describing 
the modus operandi of "ridgling" castration. The reader is here 
assured that the author's only object was to level the technique 
down to a plain, solid, practical basis in order that this most nec- 
essary economic operation could be learned and more generally 
practiced for the benefit of mankind in general and the American 
horse raising industry in particular. 



Animal Castration 71 

Orchitis — Both acute and chronic orchitis are not infrequently 
encountered in castration operation. 

Definition — Inflammation of the testicle. 

Symptoms — (a) Ante Orchitis — Swelling of testicle accompa- 
nied by heat, also pain on pressure. Arching the loins, stiffness 
and straddling gait are usually observed, (b) Chronic Orchitis — 
Enlargement and hardening of the testicle accompanied by adhe- 
sion of that organ to the tunica vaginalis. 

Advisability of Castration — (a) Acute Orchitis — When an acute 
case of orchitis is encountered and its presence recognized before 
the scrotum is opened it is always advisable to postpone operation 
until a later date in order to give the inflammation time to subside. 

(b) Chronic Orchitis — There is no special reason why an animal 
cannot be safely castrated while affected with chronic orchitis, 
even though the case be an aggravated one. In such event the 
testicle itself would be quite voluminous in size and completely 
surrounded by adhesions firmly connecting it to the tunica vag- 
inalis. The method of procedure when such a complication as this 
is encountered is to proceed as you would in castrating a stallion 
in normal condition, with the exception that it will be found neces- 
sary to detach the testicle from the tunica vaginalis by tearing 
and blunt and sharp dissection of the adhesions. Sometimes the 
hemorrhage from blood vessels in the tunic is quite profuse and 
must be controlled by hemostatic forceps and ligatures. 

Adhesions — See Chronic Orchitis above. 

HERMAPHRODITE. 

Definition — An animal affected with hermaphrodism, a condi- 
tion in which both sexes are manifested. 

Objects and Indications — In those cases of hermaphrodism in 
which the male genitals are most developed the animal will have 
the same habits and exhibit most of the objectionable qualities 
observed in the "ridgling." In such cases it is oftentimes ad- 
visable to undertake the removal of the testicles. In fact, the vet- 
erinarian is called upon to perform this operation much oftener 
than is usually imagined. 



72 



Animal Castration 



Age — Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 14.) 

Season — Spring and fall. 

Preparation— Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 14.) 

Restraint — Same as castration of the "ridgling." (See page 
54.) 

Anatomy — The general anatomy of the parts is, of course, the 
same as that of the stallion. (See pages 19-21.) However, the 
testicles in this class of animals are indefinitely located. There is 
no hard and fast rule with reference to their location which would 
be a definite guide in finding them. They are usually outside the 
abdominal cavity. Most frequently in the inguinal canal, but in 




Fig. 51 — Hermaphrodite Horse. 



Animal Castration 73 

some instances they are in posterior part of scrotum. Figure 51 
illustrates one of the author's cases where one testicle was high 
up in the inguinal canal and the other in the scrotum. 

Instruments— Same as castration of the "ridgling." (See 
pages 57-59.) 

Position — Dorsal. 

Sterilisation of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 24.) 

Operative Technique — With animal cast a careful search should 
be made in every conceivable direction and in every logical loca- 
tion for the testicles. If they can be felt then the operation is 
greatly simplified. If they are concealed then the proper course 
to pursue is to open the scrotum and proceed up the inguinal canal 
as you would in castrating a ' ' ridgling. ' ' When found the testicles 
should be brought out of scrotal incision provided the spermatic 
cords are not too short to permit it. If cords are short, then pass 
the ecraseur up the canals and sever them. 

After Care and Treatment— Same as "ridgling." (See page 
69.) 



74 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER VI. 

SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION. 

Septic Infection — Contamination of the wound either during 
operation or afterwards may result in Septicaemia, Pyaemia, 
Peritonitis, Tetanus, Abscess, etc. 

Abscess of Scrotum and Inguinal Canal — This condition arises 
as a consequence of septic infection associated with the skin inci- 
sions adhering together too early after the operation. 

Treatment — Evacuation by lancing in such site and manner as 
to afford free drainage. Followed by daily irrigation with any 
reliable antiseptic solution is the extent of treatment. 

Tetanus ("Lock Jaw") is the most frequent sequelae of cas- 
tration in the Southern States, and from all information at hand 
I am inclined to believe that this sequelae is no less frequent in 
other sections of the United States. 

Cause — We know that tetanus is caused by the Tetanus Bacillus 
gaining access to the wound. This may take place either at time 
of operation or later. Whenever a case of tetanus develops after 
castration the owner will invariably censure the operator. How- 
ever, experience has led me to conclude that the operator should 
be held blameless in the great majority of instances. At least 
ninety per cent of animals which develop tetanus after castration 
contract the infection from lying down in manure and dirt, thus 
contaminating the wound, after the actual operation has been 
performed. In every castration operation there is a possibility 
of post-operative infection. 

Period of Incubation — The period of incubation varies from 
8 to 30 days. 

Symptoms — Stiffness and contraction of all the voluntary mus- 
cles, more especially those of the tail and jaws. As a result of 
this muscular stiffness the tail and head are protruded, the jaws 
stiff — partial or complete — straddling and awkward gait. When 
tlie head is raised the nictitating membrane ("haw") protrudes 
over the eyeball. (See Fig. 52.) 



Animal Castration 



75 




Fig. 52 — A Colt with Tetanus 18 Days After Castration. 



Treatment — Is both prophylactic and curative. Prophylactic 
treatment consists in the administration of 1,500 units of tetanus 
antitoxin immediately after each castration operation. 

Curative treatment consists of casting the animal, opening- up 
the scrotal wound and swabbing it out thoroughly with tincture 
of iodine, afer which place him in a quiet box stall away from 
other live stock and noise and administer 30 grains powdered ex- 
tract Cannabis Indica three times a day. The diet should consist 
of sloppy foods. 

Mortality — The mortality will vary from 30 to 75 per cent, 

] > rola})se of the Omentum — While prolapse of the omentum is 
a rare sequelae of castration, nevertheless, it does sometimes occur, 
and when it does take place prompt and heroic measures in the 
way of treatment are imperative if the life of the animal is to be 
saved. Usually when the omentum protrudes from the scrotal 
incision it is simply a forerunner of what is to happen later, viz.: 
protrusion of the intestine and death of the animal unless intelli- 
gently directed relief measures are promptly institued. 



76 Animal Castration 

Operative Technique — Cast and secure patient in Dorsal posi- 
tion, after which cleanse parts and hands of the operator by care- 
fully and thoroughly washing with antiseptic solution. Sever 
protruding portion of omentum with the emasculator, after which 
replace that portion which remains in the inguinal canal back 
through the internal abdominal ring into the abdominal cavity. 
If there is evidence of the internal abdominal ring being abnor- 
mally enlarged it is safest, in fact advisable, to gather up the tunica 
vaginalis and ligate it as near the internal abdominal ring as 
possible with chromicized catgut (14 day) large size. Proceed 
same as for inguinal and scrotal hernia, pages 47-51. If thought 
advisable there is no special objection to packing scrotum with 
sterile gauze and suturing up. Remove sutures and packing in 
24 to 30 hours and irrigate the canal and scrotum once daily for 
8 days with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength 
of 1 tablespoonful to each quart of water. Daily exercise at pas- 
ture or to halter is advisable. 

Prolapse of Intestine — This is another rare though dangerous 
and annoying sequelae of castration, one which is always fatal 
unless treated promptly and properly. 

Operative TecJmique — Same as outlined above for treatment 
of prolapse of omentum with the exception that if the loop of 
intestine is distended by gas it should be allowed to escape by 
use of small trocar and canula. If internal abdominal ring is con- 
tracted or too small to permit return of intestinal loop then it be- 
comes necessary to enlarge the ring (Kelotomy) by using probed 
point bistoury. 

Injuries as Result of Casting — It is possible for the animal to 
receive halter burns, lacerations and abrasions of different kinds. 
Rupture of muscles and tendons sometimes occur. The vertebrae 
and other bones may become fractured. Some horses present rad- 
ical paralysis as a sequelae of casting, while others become ex- 
hausted and never rise after being released. The correct treat- 
ment of the above will be left to the judgment of the operator. 
They are mentioned here more as a warning to him to exercise 
care, good judgment, and discretion in manipulating his restraint 
technique than for any other reason. "Safety first" should be the 
watchword. 



Animal Castration 77 

Colic — Post-operative colic characterized by abdominal and 
scrotal pain, and not infrequently by more or less flatulence is a 
by no means rare occurrence, especially in old stallions and crypt- 
orchids. 

Treatment — Choral hydrate or fluid extract Cannabis Indica in 
1 ounce doses at 2-hour intervals until pain subsides. 

Peritonitis — Septic infection is the direct cause of peritonitis 
as a sequelae of castration. The infection can be introduced at 
time of operation by contaminated instruments or hands of the 
operator or it may be of post-operative origin as a result of wound 
infection from manure and dirt in barnyard or pasture. 

Peritonitis develops most often as a sequelae of cryptorchid 
("ridgling") castration than otherwise. It is one of if not the 
must serious sequelae of castration. 

Symptoms — Peritonitis as a result of sepsis usually ensues 2 
to 5 days after operation. Its development is characterized by 
chilly sensations, indisposition to move about, and in the event 
of moving there is a well marked stiffness and soreness of gait. 
Restlessness, pawing with the fore feet, and striking at abdomen 
with hind ones. Abdomen and flanks tucked up and decidedly 
rigid. Constipation is usually evident, and colicky pains may be 
shown. Tenderness on pressure to the abdominal wall, partic- 
ularly shown when this pressure is made in the flank region. Ele- 
vated temperature (102 to 105 degrees F.), quick breathing, hard 
and wiry pulse. If death does not ensue in a short time, there is 
usually an extensive effusion of fluid in the abdominal cavity. 

Treatment — Purgatives should never be administered. If nec- 
essary to secure bowel movement better resort to and depend en- 
tirely upon enemas. To allay the pain there is nothing better than 
tincture opium 1 ounce given in capsules at intervals of 4 hours. 
A mustard plaster applied to abdominal wall is indicated in the 
majority of cases. 

Pro gnos is — Un f a vor abl e . 

Azoturia — This is a disease caused by hyper-nutrition and lack 
of bodily exercise, the development of which — as a sequelae of 
castration — is extremely embarrassing to say the least of it. Azo- 
turia never develops where daily exercise either at work or in 
pasture is allowed. However, with animals that have been well 



78 Animal Castration 

fed and kept confined in stall it is a condition which we may en- 
counter at any time when casting and confining such animal. 

On account of the danger of azoturia it is well to know whether 
the animal has had sufficient exercise before you undertake to 
operate. 

Symptoms — After the operation is completed and the restraint 
apparatus removed the animal may fail to rise to his feet alto- 
gether, or upon rising may be stiff in one or more legs — most fre- 
quently the hind legs — perspiring freely, evincing pain by pawing, 
and restlessness. If urine is voided we observe the characteristic 
" coffee color." Swelling and rigidity of muscles of haunch (Grlu- 
tius Maximus) knuckling in hind ankles, etc., are diagnostic symp- 
toms of this affection. 

Pre ven tion — Daily exercise. 

Treat nt cut — Catheterization. Stimulating liniments rubbed on 
affected muscles. Internally, F. E. belladonna % ounce, sweet 
spirits nitra 1 ounce, in capsules, at 2-hour intervals. An aloes 
purge is sometimes beneficial. If the case is a mild one and the 
animal can stand upon its feet it is advisable to halter head up 
to prevent lying down. 

POST-OPERATIVE HEMORRHAGE — PRIMARY AND SECONDARY. 

(a) Primary Hemorrhage — May ensue immediately after the 
operation from failure of emasculator to close the spermatic 
artery or from the scrotal plexis of veins being severed with 
point of knife at time incision is made. 

Treatment — It is only in extremely rare instances that it be- 
comes necessary to artificially control hemorrhage of this source 
and character. Nature will, as a rule, relieve the surgeon of such 
responsibility, provided he will be patient for 20 to 30 minutes 
and allow her time to do it. It is more often necessary to treat 
the owner while his animal is bleeding than it is to treat the 
animal itself. During twenty-one years' experience, in which 
time more than 14,000 stallions, colts and mules were castrated, 
not a single animal died as a result of primary hemorrhage, and 
not a single cord was ligated nor a scrotum packed. If you pro- 
cure a properly constructed emasculator the next thing is to 
impose the utmost confidence in it, in which event you will not 



Animal Castration 79 

become unduly alarmed every time a stallion or colt bleeds freely 
for a few minutes after castration. Remember that it is impos- 
sible to do a bloodless operation with the emasculator. If you are 
expecting a bloodless job you will as a rule be disappointed ex- 
cept in extremely enemic colts. If you are afraid of hemorrhage, 
remember that the only method of operation in which you do not 
get more or less blood is the antiquated ligature. If a stallion 
bleeds freely after castration operation the best way to proceed is 
to place him in a box stall, shut the door and go with the owner to 
dinner. After dinner take a leisurely smoke with the owner — this 
usually consumes about an hour's time— after which examine the 
patient and you will find that nature has come to your rescue and 
hemorrhage has ceased. 

(b) Secondary Hemorrhage — This form of hemorrhage inva- 
riably ensues from the spermatic artery and contrary to primary 
hemorrhage is dangerous, and may result in death of animal un- 
less controlled. It usually occurs from one to six hours after 
castration; however, it sometimes occurs several days after oper- 
ation. Hemorrhage of this character is usually caused by dis- 
eased conditions of the arteries (Haemophilia), increased heart 
action, sloughing of spermatic cord, etc. The blood comes in 
spurts directly from the artery in a good size stream. 

Treatment — Nature cannot be depended upon to control tins 
class of hemorrhage. Sometimes it is possible to apply haemo- 
static forceps to mouth of the bleeding vessel. When this can- 
not be done with the animal in standing posture then cast and 
secure the patient in dorsal position, thoroughly cleanse the parts 
with antiseptic solution and make an effort to ligate the artery. 
This should always be done with chromicized catgut (10 day). 
If silk or any other form of unabsorbable ligature material is used 
a scrotal fistula is liable to result. In the event it is found impos- 
sible to locate and ligate the artery, then you would be justified in 
packing the canal and scrotum with sterile gauze and suturing 
the skin incision. Remove the packing in 24 hours, after which 
irrigate parts once daily with antiseptic solution. 

Oedema of Sheath and Ventral Surface of Abdomen — Oedema 
as a sequelae of castration (See Fig. 53) is a condition which we 
may reasonably expect in the great majority of instances, espe- 



80 



Animal Castration 



cially may we expect it in aged stallions and those which are kept 
stabled and not allowed the requisite amount of exercise. Unless 
the sheath and abdominal swelling is associated with a local or 
systemic septic infection or it becomes so voluminous as to cause 
interference with voiding the urine, it is harmless and requires no 
treatment aside from free scrotal drainage and exercise. The 
swelling begins to appear on the third day and gradually enlarges 
until the sixth day, after which it begins to recede rapidly until 
the eighth or ninth day, at which time complete recovery has 
usually taken place. 

Treatment — When treatment is required the first thing to be 
done is to wash the scrotal and inguinal and sheath regions with 
Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one 
tablespoonful to each quart of water. Cleanse the hands in like 




Fig. 53 — Oedema of Sheath Fourth Day. After Castration. 



Animal Castration 



81 



manner. With twitch applied and held by an assistant, two 
fingers are introduced into the scrotal wound by forcing the lips 
of the incision apart sufficiently to afford free scrotal and inguinal 
canal drainage, after which irrigate the parts with antiseptic so- 
lution. With a sharp-pointed bistoury the point of sheath (an- 
terior portion) may be punctured at the several dependent sites 
in order to allow the accumulated fluid to escape by oozing out. 
In scarifying the sheath the blade of the knife should be guarded 
with the thumb in such a way as to prevent too deep puncturing. 
Paraphimosis— Prolapse of the penis (See Fig. 54) may re- 
sult from extensive inflammation and swelling of the spermatic 





Fig. 54 — Paraphimosis Eight Days After Castration. 

cords (folliculitis) and extensive oedema of the sheath, (ien- 
erally the penis protrusion is merely a temporary affair, and as 
soon as the swelling and inflammation of the spermatic cords, 



82 Animal Castration . 

sheath and scrotum subsides the penis assumes its normal posi- 
tion in the sheath. 

Treatment — The first essential is to support the pendulent penis, 
as its great weight and position are unfavorable for absorption 
of the fluid and reduction of the swelling. Bathe the swollen 
parts with plenty of warm water to which has been added sugar 
of lead (plumbii acetate) in the strength of one ounce to each 
gallon of water. With a properly constructed suspensory a warm 
pack saturated with the above solution may be kept applied to 
the parts, 

Schirrous Cord or Chronic Funiculitis (Champignon) — Is an 
enlarging and hardening of the stump of the spermatic cord. It 
sometimes reaches enormous proportions, sufficiently large in 
some instances to fill and distend the whole inguinal canal and 
groin. In long standing chronic cases the cord is surrounded 
by dense adhesions. A genuine schirrous cord never reduces in 
size spontaneously, but has a tendency to grow larger and be- 
come harder. 

Cause — There are two principle reasons for this sequelae of 
castration : 

1. Operator leaving stump of cord sufficiently long to be 
caught between lips of scrotal incisions during the healing process. 
This, of course, strangulates the cord and causes it to enlarge 
and harden. 

2. Infection either actinomycotic, streptococcic, or botryomy- 
cotic. This accounts for the constant pus discharge and numerous 
abscesses which make their appearance from time to time. Either 
ignorance or carelessness on the part of operator is responsible 
for this unappreciated condition. By removing enough cord and 
practicing cleanliness at the outset schirrous cord would be to a 
large degree eliminated. The development of schirrous cords was 
largely reduced when the emasculator superceded the old-style 
clamp method of operating. 

Trail incut — In the acute stage of development — which means 
two to six weeks after castration — the scrotal region should be 
frequently cleansed by washing. The scrotal wound itself should 
be painted once every two days with tincture iodine. During this 
T)eriod it is well to give iodide potash in 4-drachm doses once a day. 



Animal Castration 



83 




Fig. 55 — A Well Developed Schirrous Cord. 

If at the end of six weeks the tumefaction still persists, then 
the radical operation — which consists in total ablation — is justi- 
fied and in fact indicated. 

Restraint— Same as for ridgling castration, sec page 54. 

Position — Dorsal. 

General Anaesthesia is always indicated when possible, as the 
operation is extremely painful and usually prolonged for a con- 
siderable length of time in order to control hemorrhage. 

Instruments, ete. — 

1. Ecraseur (Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8). 

2. Threaded needles for ligating blood vessels, suturing skin 

incision and ligating cord if for any reason the ecraseur 
■ fails to sever it. 



84 



Animal Castration 



3. Sterile gauze in liberal amount. 

4. Haemostatic forceps (several pairs) 

5. Sharp scalpel. 

6. Vulsellum forceps (Fig. 56.) 

7. Thumb tissue forceps. 




Fig. 56 — Vulsellum Forceps (8-inch). 




Pig. 57— Schirrous Cord. Showing Skin Incision. B, Old Cicatrix with Imprisoned End of 
Cord; C, Scrotum; D, Elliptical Skin Incisions tor Ablating the Growth. 



Animal Casteation 85 

Sterilization of Instruments, Cleansing Operator's Hands and 
Fwld of Operatwn-Same as castration of the stallion. (See 
page 24.) w~c 

Operative Technique-With field of operation, operator's hands 
and mstrmnente sterile and animal in dorsal position, proceed 
to operate as follows: With scalpel in right hand make two 
curved <• h P h,al incisions (D, Fig. 57 , 5 inches long with th oZ 
mal cicato (scar B as the center. These incisions should pen- 
etrate skn, and subcutaneous connective tissue onl y . liv careful 

faction (both diarp and blunt) the cord is gradually sened 

''"" l ^tedby breaking down the numerous dense adherens 

surrounding it. The elliptical sect f skin which is removed 

on end of cord should be sufficiently large to include all external 




Fig n> 1 58 ~ I I emov i n - Schirrous Cord with B 



Chain Around 



* : r. v=,u^„S B: ^Seu?; WSSt&SflUss- 



86 Animal Castration 

diseased tissue, such as scars, granulations, etc. The tumor is 
now grasped with the vulsellum forceps (Fig. 58.) These are 
held by an assistant in such manner as to afford considerable 
direct upward traction. With the cord tense from traction the 
careful dissection is continued up the inguinal canal until a point 
is reached well above the diseased or indurated portion of the 
cord. If the entire cord is diseased, then we should proceed up 
the canal to a point in close proximity to the internal abdominal 
ring. Usually after the cord is released from its scrotal adhe- 
sions the remainder of the dissection process can be completed by 
tearing with the fingers. All freely bleeding blood vessels — except 
tlmse in cord itself — should be ligated as you proceed. When 
the growth is freed from all surrounding attachments the ecraseur 
chain should be placed around it as high up as necessary and 
with continued traction from vulsellum forceps the cord is quickly 
severed. 

If cord is too large to be severed by the ecraseur, then the 
ligature must be resorted to. In such event the cord should be 
transfixed and ligated in several sections. The scrotal wound 
should now be irrigated thoroughly with bichloride mercury solu- 
tion in the strength of 1-1000, after which pack tightly with for- 
malized gauze and suture up securely. 

After Treatment — If upon completion of the operation decided 
shock is imminent the animal should have strychnine y 2 grain, 
nitro-glycerine y± grain, hypodermically. If a large amount of 
blood has been lost normal saline solution injected intravenously 
is indicated. Remove packing in 36 hours and irrigate the wound 
daily with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of 
a tablespoonful to each quart of water. 

Exuberant Granulations — On account of some mishap in oper- 
ative technique or some character of infection, exuberant granula- 
tions sometimes appear as a sequelae of castration. They are, of 
course, first acute and in most instances disappear without treat- 
ment. However, if a cure is not effected in the acute stage, then 
they assume a chronic form and may reach enormous proportions 
in size. (See Fig. 59.) They are usually extra-scrotal. 



Animal Castration 



87 



^^r 








Fig. 59 — Exuberant Granulations Which Have Assumed the Chronic Form and 

Reached Enormous Size. 

If not attached to cord their removal and after treatment is a 
simple matter, consisting in removing the skin by dissection well 
around their base, controlling cutaneous hemorrhage and daily 
washing the wound with antiseptic solution. 

Hydrocele {"Water Bag")— Is simply an accumulation of se- 
rous fluid in the testicular sac (tunica vaginalis), from which the 
testicle itself has been removed. 

Cause — There is only one cause for this condition. It may be 
directly attributed to either the operator's carelessness or igno- 
rance. The only reason for the development of hydrocele as a 
sequelae of castration is leaving too much of the tunica vaginalis 



88 Animal Castration 

in the scrotum at time of severing the spermatic cord. If at least 
one inch of the tunica lie removed then there is no occasion, in 
fact, no possibility of a hydrocele developing. 

Frequency — It is rare to see hydrocele in the stallion and colt, 
however, the reverse is true as regards the mule. Hydrocele is 
decidedly the most frequent sequelae of mule castration, and noth- 
ing reflects quite so much — in mule raising centers — upon a man's 
ability and qualification as having numerous mules which he cas- 




Fig. 60— Well Developed Hydrocele ("Water Bag") i.\ a Three-Year-Old Mule. 

A, Hydrocele. 

trates turn up later with "water hags." While they do not inter- 
fere in the least with the general health and usefulness of the 
animal they are nevertheless great "eye sores," and depreciate 
the animal's marketable value, hence should in every instance be 



Animal Castration 



89 



removed by surgieal interference. They may be unilateral or 
bilateral. 

Preparation — Same as for castration of the stallion. (See page 
14.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and () iterator's Hands — Same as 
for castrating the stallion. (Sec page 24.) 

Restraint — For small mules, same as for castration of the cult. 
(See page 36.) For large mules, same as for castration of the 
"ridgling." (See pages 54-56.) 

Position — Dorsal. 

Instruments — 

1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Sec Pig. 25.) 

2. Vulsellum forceps. (See Fig. 56.) 

3. Ecraseur. (See Fig. 41.) 

4. Haemostatic forceps. 




Fig. 61 — Hydrocele Showing Skin Incisions. B, Hydrocele: C, Incisions; D, Knife; 

E, Right Hand of Operator. 



90 



Animal Castration 



Sterilization of Field of Operation — Same as castration of the 
stallion. (See page 24.) 

Technique of Operation — With Miles' hook castrating knife in 
right hand (E) two curved or elliptical incisions are made (C, 
Pig. 61) to the right and left of the most prominent part of the 
hydrocele (B). This means that the old cicatrix (scar) is in cen- 
ter of section of skin removed. These incisions should be made 
from 4 to 5 inches long— depending upon size of the hydrocele. 
They should extend through skin and subcutaneous connective tis- 
sue only. With the vulsellum forceps grasp elliptical section of 




Fig. 62 — Hydrocele Showing .Method of Removal by the Ecraseur. F, Left Hand of 
Operator; G, Vulsellum Forceps; H, Hydrocele; I, Ecraseur; J, Right Hand 

of Operator. 

skin which is to be removed with the hydrocele. Have assistant 
make upward traction while the superficial subcutaneous adhesions 
are being carefully broken down by sharp dissection. These ad- 
hesions never extend deep and are readily broken down. If neces- 
sary ligate spurting blood vessels as you proceed. As soon as the 
scrotal adhesions are removed from around tunica vaginalis the 



Animal Castration 



91 



operator takes charge of the vulsellum forceps with his left hand 
and with fingers of the right tears the tunica vaginalis loose from 
its delicate fascia attachments until a point is reached on the 
spermatic cord well above where it was formerly severed. The 
chain of the ecraseur is now applied to tunica ("sac") and the 
same, including the stump of spermatic cord, is severed. It is 
rarely over necessary to pack the scrotum in order to control hem- 
orrhage. 




Fig. 63 — Hydrocele After Removal. 



After Care and Treatment — About all this is necessary is daily 
observation in order to see that everything proceeds well. Tf 
sequelae arise they must be treated as outlined under their re- 
spective headings. 



92 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER VII. 

CASTRATION OF THE BULL. 

Objects and Indications — The operation is usually performed 
for purely economic purposes. However, in some instances, on 
account of diseased conditions of the scrotum, testicle and sper- 
matic cord, it becomes necessary to castrate. On the other hand 
some bulls become vicious to the extent of being a source of 
danger and annoyance to their owners and attendants, in which 
event castration must be resorted to. As an economic operation 
—especially in young' animals — its value is beyond estimate. Cas- 
tration increases physical development and hastens early growth 
as well as improving the texture, odor, wholesomeness and nutri- 
tive properties of the beef. Bulls are also castrated for the pur- 
pose of making work oxen. 

Castrated bulls are known as "steers." 

Age — From several days to several years. The younger the 
better. Most calves are submitted to the operation at about two 
to three months old. 

Season — Early spring, late fall and winter. The bull or calf 
should never be submitted to castration operation during "fly 
time." Bovine animals do not possess the same instinct in pro- 
tecting themselves from flies — by warding them off with tail — 
as does the equine species. On this account late spring, early fall 
;i!id summer are unfavorable seasons for castrating this class of 
animals. Bulls are castrated in both the standing and recumbent 
posture. 

Preparation — No special preparal ion is necessary unless the ani- 
mal is to be cast and tied, in which event have the alimentary 
tract empty by withholding feed tor 24 hours before operating. 

CASTRATION OF THE BULL IX Till', RECUMBENT POSTURE. 

Restraint — When it becomes necessary to cast and tie the ani- 
mal For this operation an excellent method of doing so is with 
the Conkey self -lock buckle hobbles. (Eig. 64.) 



Animal Castration 



93 



J. 




Fig. 64 — Conkey's Self Lock Buckle Hobbles Applied. 



These hobbles have the advantage of being strong, safe, quick 
to apply and easy to remove. The degree of restraint afforded by 
them is ample, especially when used in conjunction with a 15-foot 
rope. In applying hobble straps to cattle always buckle or 1<h>i> 
them above the ankles, otherwise there is a tendency for them 
to slip over the foot and off. The hobbles arc applied as follows 
(Fig. (>I) : With an assistant (C) at the head, a "holder" in 
the nose (A) and rope around horns (B) buckle a hobble strap 
above ankles of both hind (G, II) and the right fore (I' 1 .). 
Buckle master hobble strap above left Fore ankle (B). Pass the 
end of rope through hobble strap (G) then through (H), then 
through (E), and lastly across through self-lock buckle (F). 
By making tension on rope (I) from (J) — at direct right angles 
to the animal — he is cast on the right side. After the animal is 
cast (See Fig. 65) the uppermost hind ankle (N) is released 
from its hobble strap and the end of a 15-foot rope looped on 
instead of the hobble strap. This rope (P) is passed over withers 
(O) under neck (Q) and above hock (E) in such manner as to 
draw the foot against the abdomen and flex the hock to a certain 
degree. In this position of the animal the operation can be pro- 
ceeded with without danger to either the operator or patient. 
Calves may be held without tieing by one or more assistants. 



94 



Animal Oastkation 




Fig. 65 — Bull Cast and Tied for Castration Operation. 

Instruments — The emasculator (Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8) and cas- 
trating knife are the only instruments needed. The Miles hook 
castrating knife (Fig. 25) and the Williams castrating knife (Fig. 
2) are equally satisfactory for this operation. 



ANATOMY. 4 

h\ order to operate intelligently some knowledge of the anatomy 
of the scrotum, testicle and inguinal canal is necessary. However, 
lack of space prevents going into details here. By reference to 
Fig. 66 a general idea of the relation and position of the generative 
or reproductive organs of the bull may be had. 

Testicle — The testicle is a compound tubular gland ovoid in 
shape and well developed with its long axis vertical. On the 
epididymus is a well developed globus major. 

Penis — The penis is round in shape and long in length. It pro- 
jects far under the abdomen and possesses the well recognized S- 
shape curve. Its gland is small and pointed. 

Prepuce — The prepuce is located well under the abdomen. It 
is simply an elastic sheath, surrounded at its external opening by 
long stiff hairs. Its cavity is from 10 to 15 inches long. 

Scrotum — The scrotum is long and pendulous, and has a well 
marked neck. It is suspended between the thighs somewhat fur- 
ther forward than in the stallion. 



Animal Castration 



95 




Fig. 66 — Generative or Reproductive Organs of the Bull. A, Ejaculator Seminis; 
D, Intrapelvic Portion of Urethra; C. Urinary Bladder; D, D, Ureters; E, E, Intra- 
Abdominal Portion of Spermatic Cords; F, S-Shape Curve in Penis; G, Retractor Muscles 
of Sheath; H, H, Tunica Vaginalis; 1, Penis; J, Prepuce; K, Scrotum; L, L, Testicles; 
M, M, Internal Abdominal Rings. 

Spermatic Cord — The spermatic cord and its covering — tnnica 
vaginalis — is much longer than in the stallion. 

Inguinal (/anal — This canal is long and narrow, and directed 
almost perpendicular to the scrotum. 



96 Animal Castration 





Fig. 67— Testicle of Bull. A, Spermatic Cord; B, Testes; C, Globus Major of Epididy- 

ruus; D, Epididymus. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
Same as castration of the stallion. (See page 24.) 

Disinfection of the Operative Field — While this step in the op- 
erative procedure is usually ignored entirely or if done at all it 
is usually done in a perfunctory manner, nevertheless such neg- 
lect is inexcusable. On account of the danger of sepsis and other 
sequelae known to follow hull castration, the operator should take 
the time and precaution necessary to disinfect the field of opera- 
tion. This may be quickly done as follows: 

(a) Scrub scrotum and inside of thighs with soap and warm 
water until all visible dirt is removed. 

(b) AYasli parts with Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in 
the strength of one tablespoonful t<> each quart of water. 

Operative Technique — There are two methods of making the 



Animal Castration 



97 



scrotal incision, (a) lateral or side incisions (see Fig. 68) ; (b) 
end incision (see Fig. 69). 

Lateral or Side Incision — This method is the most popular one, 
as after recovery there is less mutilation of the scrotum. 




Fig. 68 — Method of Making Lateral or Side Scrotal Incisions. A, Right Testicle in 
Scrotum; B, Scrotum; C, Knife; D, Right Hand; E, Left Hand; F, Incision. 

Grasp left side of scrotum in left hand and by compressing ii 
force right testicle to the right until the skin of scrotum is 
stretched tight. With sterilized knife in right hand begin in- 
cision 4 inches above apex of scrotum and bring it down to near 
the apex. The incision should be made through the skin, subcuta- 
neous connective tissue dartos and tunica vaginalis. This exposes 
the testicle. Grasp the testicle with the right hand and with the 
left strip the attached scrotal tissue from the cord until the cord 
itself is isolated well up to summit (top) of scrotum* The final 



98 



Animal Castration 



step of the operation consists in grasping testicle with left hand 
and making two pounds tension on its cord. With right hand 
apply emasculator to the spermatic cord and force it (emasculator) 
well to the summit (top) of scrotum. By bringing handles to- 
gether the cord and its coverings are severed. The opposite testi- 
cle is likewise removed. 




Fig. 69 — Method of Operating in Which Apex (Bottom) of Scrotum Is Removed. G, H, 
Testicles in Scrotum; I, Knife; J, Right Hand; K, Left Hand; L, Incision. 

(b) The other method <>f scrotal incisions (Fig. 69) consists in 
grasping apex (bottom) of scrotum with left hand and by com- 
pressing it force the testicles upward until the lower one-third of 
the scrotum may be severed without injuring them. With knife in 
right hand it is an easy affair to remove the lower one-third of 
the scrotal sac. 

The tunica vaginalis containing the testicles drops outside the 



Animal Castration 



99 



remaining portion of scrotum. By knicking the tunic the testi- 
cles themselves are exposed. With right hand grasp one of them 
and make two pounds traction on the cord, with left hand strip 
the scrotal tissue from the cord until it is isolated well up to 
summit (top) of scrotum. Next grasp testicle with left hand 
and make two pounds traction on cord. With right hand apply 
the emasculator and force it upward to summit (top) of scrotum 
in order that a sufficient amount of spermatic cord will he re- 
moved. By bringing handles of emasculator together the cord 
and all its coverings are severed. This method has the advantage 
of affording ideal scrotal drainage. 




Fig. 70 — Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator (Recumbent Posture). T, Right 

Hand; U, Testicle; V, Spermatic Cord and Its Coverings; W, Emasculator 

X, Left Hand; Y, Opposite Testicle. 



After Care and Treat aunt — Turn to pasture and make daily 
observation to see that all is going well. If the scrotal wound 
closes in such manner as to interfere with drainage and cause 
extensive swelling, then it should be opened and the scrotum irri- 
gated with antiseptic solution. 



100 



Animal Castration 



CASTRATION OF THE BULL IN STANDING POSTURE. 

Restraint — If the animal possesses horns a strong rope may be 
looped around them and his head drawn close up to a post. In 
most instances this is all the restraint employed. Contrary to 
the prevalent popular opinion the bull can actually kick backwards 
about as hard as he can sidewise. In castrating most bulls in the 
standing posture the operator must either stand out of range of 
the hind feet, confine them by means of ropes, or take his chances 
on the kicking proposition. In castrating young bulls (3 to 6 




Fig 71— Castration of the Bull in;Stnnding Posture. E, Post; F, Rope; G, Left Hand; 
H, Scrotum;' 5, ilncision; J, Right Hand; K, Knife. 



Animal Castration 101 

months of age) the standing posture is ideal and injury to the 
operator by kicks is extremely rare. 

The same instruments, preparation, disinfection of site of 
operation, sterilization of instruments, scrotal incisions, etc., are 
employed here as castrating bulls in the recumbent posture. The 
operator should — while making scrotal incision — have his knife 
under thorough control as at this time there is almost invariably an 
abrupt movement on part of the animal which might result in the 
knife coming in contact with the tendo-achillis ("hamstring") and 
doing irreparable damage. Calves are castrated in the same man- 
ner as bulls. 

castration of the cryptorch id and monorchid 
("ridgling") rull. 

Compared with the horse and hog, cryptorchidism in cattle 
is extremely rare. However, such a complication does actually 
exist, and it behooves those who are expected to perform such 
classes of operations to qualify themselves for this one. 

Objects and Indications — Same as castration of the bull. See 
page 92. 

Age — Six to twelve months. 

Preparation — Withhold all food for twenty-four hours previous 
to operating. 

Position — Standing. 

Restraint — A simple, quick and efficient method of handling a 
bull fortius operation is illustrated in Fig. 72. With a rope around 
horns (B), if "polled' 1 use halter, and holder in nose (A), the 
head is made fast to gate post (C). While assistant continues to 
hold rope attached to nose the second assistant grasps tail (D) 
and draws it between slats of gate or fence (E). With animal in 
this position and thus secured he can be castrated with little annoy- 
ance in so far as body movement is concerned. If stocks are avail- 
able of course they should be used in preference to this method. 

Instruments— 

1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Figs. 5, 6, 7 and 8.) 

3. Hair clippers. (Fig. 145.) 

4. Spraying needle. (Fig. 152.) 

5. Strong flax or braided silk for flank sutures. 



102 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 72 — Ridgling Bull Confined for Castration. 

Sterilization of Instruments and ( 'lean-sing Hands of Operator — 
The instruments should be boiled for 15 to 20 minutes. Operator's 
hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water, 
using scrub brush, after which wash in Lysol or Cresol Compound. 
U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of 
water. 

Preparation of Operative Field — With clippers the hair in flank 
region should be removed, after which thoroughly wash parts with 
son)) and warm water, using scrub brush, then with Lysol or Cresol 
Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each 
quarl of water. As a further precaution against septic infection 
the skin should be painted with tincture iodine. 

Operative Technique — The most popular and satisfactory 
method of operating is flank laparotomy, which is as follows: 
With Miles' hook castrating knife make flank incision in the same 
manner and the same size as for heifer spaying. All the details 
of this incision are well illustrated and described under head of 
heifer spaying, and the render is strongly advised to refer to this 
reference before reading further in regard to the technique of the 
operation. 



Animal Castration 



103 




Fig. 73 — Removing" Testicle of "Ridgling" Bull with Emasculator. G, Flank Incision; 
H, Emasculator; I, Testicle; J, Hand. 




Fig. 74 — Flank Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. K, Sutures. 



104 Animal Castration 

The flank incision itself is by far the most important step of the 
operation, and remember that there is only one proper way to 
make it. Learn how it should be made and make it that way. 

If we are invading the left flank the operator's left hand should 
be forced through the abdominal incision and a careful search 
made — toward the pelvic region — for either the testicle or sper- 
matic cord. One or both of them will soon be encountered. Bring 
the testicle outside the abdominal cavity if the cord is sufficiently 
long to permit it. Then sever cord with emasculator and drop 
stump of cord back into the abdominal cavity. If the cord is not 
long enough to permit testicle being brought out of abdomen, then 
the emasculator or ecraseur may be passed through the incision 
and cord severed inside. 

The wound is now sponged off with antiseptic solution and 
closed by three interrupted sutures. 

After Care and Treatment — Limited diet for five days. Re- 
moval of sutures at expiration of eight days. If stitch abscess 
forms the suture may be removed at an earlier date. 






Animal Castration 105 



CHAPTER VIII. 

CASTRATION OF THE BOAR. 

Objects and Indications — Pigs are castrated in order to facili- 
tate their growth and fattening. Aside from the above the opera- 
tion has a tendency to improve their behavior when associated with 
other hogs, especially sows. Older hogs (boars) are often castrated 
when having reached the limit of usefulness as breeding animals, 
it is decided to prepare them for market. Even when castrated, 
boars never make choice meat. However, they take on flesh (fat- 
ten) very readily and their characteristic odor disappears to a de- 
cided degree. Castrated boars are known as "stags." Castrated 
pigs are referred to as "barrows" and it is a well-recognized fact 
that "barrows" command a higher market price than do boars. 

Castration is an operation which is universally practiced wher- 
ever swine are raised. 

Age — Pigs are best castrated either two weeks before or two 
weeks after weaning. If the operation is performed at or near 
weaning time it has a tendency to retard their growth and de- 
velopment. If allowed to run too long they become " boar is b" 
besides the operation is more painful than it would have been 
if they had been operated on younger. 

Season — Hogs should not be castrated during the summer 
months while flies are prevalent. Best to operate during late 
fall, winter and early spring. 

Preparation — No special preparation is necessary unless it be 
to have the animals empty, which would lessen the danger of 
injury from handling. 

Restraint — In castrating large boars it is necessary to take ad- 
vantage of the animal to a very decided degree. This is essential, 
first, on account of the great strength of the animal compared 
to its size, and, second, on account of there being no favorable 
part or appendage of the hog by which a firm hand hold can be 
taken. Satisfactory restraint may be had by several different 



106 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 75 — Restraint for Castration. 




Fig. 76— Restraint of Large Boar for Castration. 



Animal Castration 



107 



methods. Fig. 75 illustrates easting and tying the animal by bring- 
ing three feet together. 

To thus secure a large hog requires considerable time and 
much effort besides the services of several assistants. A favorite 
method of the author for handling large boars for this operation 
is graphically illustrated in Fig. 76. 

It consists in placing the loop of a half or three-quarter inch 
rope over the neck and behind one shoulder, after which throw 
the rope over beam above and allow the assistant to draw the fore- 
feet of the hog off the floor by tension on the rope. This renders 
the animal absolutely helpless. By such a method the operator 
with one assistant can handle the largest size hog. 

Another quick method of restraint for operation of this char- 
acter is illustrated in Fi<r. 77. 




Fig. 77 — Restraint for Castration. 

This consists in placing a rail or bar over the neck of the hog 
where it is held by weight of an assistant. 

Figs. 78 and 79 illustrate two methods of holding pigs and 
small shoats for operation. 

Instruments — 

1. Williams' castrating knife. (Fig. 2.) 

2. Emasculator. (Fig. 80.) This is an instrument specially 



108 



Animal Castration 





Fig. 78 — Holding Pig for Castration. 



Fig. 79 — Holding Pig for Castration. 



constructed for castrating swine and sheep, and is about one-half 
the size of the one used in castrating stallions and colts and about 
twice the size of the canine and feline instrument. 

.! natomy — The scrotum consists of two pouches formed by skin 
subcutaneous connective tissue, etc. These pouches are divided 
by a raphe or "median line" and fit up close to the perineal re- 
gion. These pouches each contain a testicle (Fig. 81) which is 
decidedly shorter and more rounded than the testicle of many of 
the other domestic animals. Their long axis is vertical. 

Disinfection of Operative Field — Same as for castration of 
the bull. (See page 96.) 

Operative Technique — With sterile instruments, clean hands, 



Animal Castration 



109 




Fig. 80 — Swine and Sheep Emasculator. 

and the animal properly secured this operation is simple and an 
extremely easy one to perform. The scrotum is firmly grasped 
with the left Land and two bold incisions made. (H, I, Fig. 82.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator 
— Same as for castration of the bull. (See page 96.) 

These incisions should begin well forward on the scrotum and 
extend sufficiently far backward to allow the testicle to be re- 
moved from the scrotum without effort, The larger the incision 
the better. These incisions should be parallel to each other and 
to the "median line." Thev should be from one-half to one 




Fig. 81 — Testicle of Boar. O, Testes; P, R, Epididymus; S, T, Spermatic Cord. 



110 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 82 — J, Hand; H, I, Incisions in Scrotum. 

inch, depending on the size of the hog, to each side of the "median 
line." If for any reason the first incision was not sufficiently 
deep to penetrate the tunica vaginalis (sac covering testicle) and 
completely releasing the testicle from scrotum, then with another 
stroke of the knife this tunic is incised, which allows the testicle 
to escape from the scrotum. The testicle is now grasped with 
the left hand, by which it is advisable to apply about one to 
two pounds traction on the cord, after which apply the emas- 
culator (M) to cord and its coverings (L) as close to the skin 
or scrotal incision as possible, being careful that the instrument 
is at direct right angles to the cord, after which the cord is severed 
by bringing the handles of the instrument together. (See Fig. 83.) 
The opposite testicle is now removed in like manner. 

After Cure and Treatment — Immediately after castration it is 
well to turn animals to pasture — preferably where there is run- 
ning water. In any event get them away from the barn and barn- 
yard and do not allow them access to stagnant and filthy "wallow 
holes." Recovery is usually prompt and the mortality is small. 

Sequelae— Septicaemia (blood poison), peritonitis, schirrous 
cord, tetanus (lock jaw), hemorrhage. 



Animal Castration 



111 






/ 




Fig. 83 — Severing Spermatic Cord and Its Covering with Emasculator. K, Testicle; 
L, Spermatic Cord and Its Covering; M, Emasculator; N, Opposite Testicle. 

CASTRATION OF THE CRYPTORCHID AND MONORCHID 

("ridgling") BOAR. 

Objects and Indications— All "ridgling" boars and pigs 
should be castrated. The principal reasons for so doing are out- 
lined under proper heading in describing castration of the boar. 
(Page 105.) Furthermore, operation is strongly advised since 
the modus operandi itself is easy and comparatively simple and 
attended with so little danger if proper procedure is adhered to. 

Age — At about 25 to 35 pounds weight. 

Preparation — The pig must be empty. This is done by with- 
holding all food fur twenty-four hours previous to operating. 
A plentiful amount of water may be allowed. 

Warning — The pig should be free from constitutional diseases 
and in good physical condition. Before operating, see that the 
testicle is not located in the inguinal canal. This precaution is 



112 Animal Castration 

essential on account of the fact that if the testicle is in the canal 
it cannot be withdrawn through the abdominal incision. 

Restraint- — Since the operation consists in median line laparot- 
omy the animal should be suspended from the ground to a post 
or beam above until the site of incision is about opposite the 
operator's breast. 

Instruments — 

1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Fig. 80.) 

3. Hagerdorn needle (Fig. 84) carrying 20 inches of braided 
silk No. 12 for abdominal sutures. 

4. Richter's needle holder (Fig. 34). 

5. Curved scissors (6-inch) (Fig. 35.) 




Fig. 84 — Hagerdorn's Needle No. 3. (Actual Size.) 

Position — Hanging. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator 
— Satisfactory recoveries largely depend upon cleanliness and it 
behooves the operator to take extra precautions in this particular 
regard. Simply because the animal is a hog is no reason why it 
should be carelessly operated upon. Boil the instruments for 
15 to 20 minutes, after which immerse them in clean pans con- 




Fig. 85 — Testicle of "Ridgling" Boar. G, Testes; H, Globus Major; I, Globus Minor 
J, Body of Epididymus; K, Spermatic Cord. 



Animal Castration 



113 



taining Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of 
one tablespoonful to each quart of water. 

Disinfection of Ope rat ire Field — Clip hair from belly wall 
from umbilicus to brim of pubis. Wash parts with tincture green 
soap and warm water, using scrub brush, after which paint the 
skin with tincture iodine 

Ope rat ire Technique — With animal hanging, instruments ster- 
ilized, hands of operator and site of incision cleansed and dis- 
infected, proceed as follows: Select a site cither to the right 
or left of the median line of abdomen two inches below brim of 
pubis for the abdominal incision (A) (See Fig. 86.) Care must 
be exercised in order to avoid the urethra, etc., whose course is 




Fig. S6 — Abdominal Iccision. 

in the median line. This incision should be three inches long and 
penetrate all the coats of abdominal wall. The index and second 
linger are now introduced into the abdominal cavity and a search 



114 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 87 — Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator. 

made for the testicle. This organ is usually short corded aud 
hangs against posterior abdominal wall, directly in front of the 
abdominal incision. If the spermatic cord be long then the tes- 
ticle itself may be quite a distance below the abdominal incision, 
in which event the cord is located and drawn through abdominal 
incision and the natural consequence is that the testicle will fol- 
low. The spermatic cord is now severed and its stump replaced 
in the abdominal cavity. If a cryptorchid (both testicles un- 
descended) both testicles should be removed through the one ab- 
dominal incision. The abdominal wall should now be closed with 
three interrupted sutures. These sutures should be what is known 
as the " through and through" variety — all coats of the abdominal 
wall included in them. 

After Care and Treatment — The animal should be confined for 
eight or nine days in a small, clean pen; during this period the 



Animal Casteation 



115 



diet should be limited. Nature will ordinarily take care of re- 
moving the sutures. 



CASTRATION OF THE RUPTURED BOAR. 

Scrotal hernia (" rupture") in the boar occurs invariably and 
directly as a result of dilation or enlargement of the internal 
abdominal ring. The anatomical function of the internal abdom- 




Fig. 88 — Abdominal Wall Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. 

inal ring is to allow the spermatic cord to pass from the abdom- 
inal cavity into the inguinal canal and at the same time prohibit 
the passage of any portion of the intestines from the cavity into 
that canal. 



116 Animal Castration 

Causes — The experience of others and. my own observation 
lead me to believe that scrotal hernia of the boar is one condi- 
tion which can be truthfully laid at the door of hereditary trans- 
mission in 95 per cent of cases. They are of congenital origin. 
The internal abdominal ring being open at time of birth and 
nature fails to close it afterwards. In my own practice I recall 
one sow in particular which presented her owner with a bunch 
of ruptured pigs twice each year. This sow gave birth to large 
litters and was kept as a brood sow on that account. These litters 
were usually about equally divided between boar and sow pigs. 
During the three years that this sow was under my observation 
each and every boar pig to which she gave birth was "ruptured." 
Twice each year her owner would come — five miles distance — 
with the pigs in a market wagon for operation, and strange indeed 
to say he never lost a pig as a result therefrom. 




Fig. 89 — "Ruptured'' Boar. 



Objects ami Indications — All "ruptured" boars should be cas- 
trated for at least three reasons: (a) Stop their breed in order 
to lessen the birth of congenitally "ruptured" pigs, (b) For 



Animal Casteation 117 

the same reason that boars are usually castrated, viz.: in order 
to increase their usefulness and value for food purposes, (c) 
In order that they may peacefully commingle with other hogs with- 
out exhibiting the natural and acquired sexual habits of the boar. 

Most that has been written and published in regard to methods 
of procedure is vague and some of it misleading. If the operator 
follows the directions given by some so-called and so considered 
authorities — namely, operation via scrotal incision — he will make 
a haphazard job and be a monumental failure so far as his per- 
manent results are concerned. Since the direct cause for the 
bowel protruding into the inguinal canal and scrotum is on ac- 
count of open condition of the internal abdominal ring, then how 
can a scrotal operation correct the trouble? Especially is this 
true when we recognize the fact that by no known means can 
the internal abdominal ring be reached by a scrotal incision un- 
less it be by a probe and a very long and small size probe at 
that. Since the internal abdominal ring must be closed in order 
to correct the condition and since this ring cannot be reached via 
a scrotal incision, it becomes necessary if we expect success to 
operate by an incision immediately over and in close proximity 
to the ring, This operaton is the one which we will now illus- 
trate and describe. 

Age — At 25 to 35 pounds weight. 

Seaso)i — Early spring, late fall and winter. 

Preparation — Withhold food for twenty-four hours in order 
to have alimentary tract empty. 

Restraint — Suspended by means of a rope looped above hocks 
and attached to a beam above. 

Position — Hanging just high enough so that the operative field 
will be opposite the operator's breast. 

Instruments — 

1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Fig. 80.) 

3. Hagerdorn Xo. 3 needle (Fig. 81) carrying 20 inches braid- 
ed silk No. 12 for suturing skin incision. 

4. Surgeon's full curved needle Xo. 5 (Fig 180 b) carrying a 
sufficient amount of chromirizcd catgut (ten-day) to close the 
internal abdominal ring. 

5. Richter's needle holder. (Fig. 31.) 



118 



Animal Casteation 



Sterilization of Instruments, Cleansing Operator's Hands and 
Operative Field — Same as for castration of the "ridgling" boar. 
(See page 109.) 

Operative Technique — With the pig in position, the instru- 
ments sterilized, hands of operator and operative field cleansed 
and disinfected, we proceed as follows: Locate the internal ab- 
dominal ring. This can usually be done by pressure applied ex- 
ternally in the inguinal region. With location of the ring as 




Fig. 90 — View of the Scrotum After Animal Is Hung Up for Operation. 



Animal Castration 



119 




Fig. 91— Incision in Groin Immediately Over the Internal Abdominal Ring. 



120 



Animal Castration 



a land mark, make the incision through the skin and subcutaneous 
connective tissue down to the muscular coat of the abdominal wall. 
This incision should be made about three to four inches long and 
its center should be directly over center of the internal abdom- 



inal ring. 




Fig. 92 — View of Testicle, Spermatic Cord and Internal. Abdominal Ring. 
Abdominal Rim;; (', Spermatic Cord; D, Testicle. 



B, Internal 



Animal Castbation 



121 




Fig. 93 — Closing Internal Abdominal Ring with a Purse String Suture. 



122 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 94 — Operation Completed by Three Interrupted Sutures. 

Usually by this time the intestines have already — by gravity — 
returned to the abdominal cavity. The next step is to incise the 
tunica vaginalis near the ring, which exposes the cord. By trac- 
tion on the cord the testicle can usually be withdrawn from the 
scrotum, through the inguinal canal and out of the incision. The 
testicle is now removed by severing its spermatic cord with emas- 
culator, after which drop stump of severed cord back into the 



Animal Castration 123 

abdominal cavity. Figs. 91 and 92 afford a comprehensive idea 
of how the operation has been proceeded with up to this point. 
Now by reference to Figs. 93 and 94 you will observe how it is 
completed. Next we close the inguinal ring by means of a "purse- 
string" suture applied in such a manner as to bring the serous 
surfaces of the peritoneum in close apposition. It is important 
that the suture be of absorbable material, otherwise it might do 
damage in the wound. 

The only thing now remaining to be done is to close the skin 
incision which is easily and quickly done by three interrupted 
sutures. (See F, Fig.' 94.) 

Sometimes on account of small size of the external abdominal 
ring it is impossible to withdraw testicle from the scrotum by ten- 
sion on cord. In such cases a scrotal incision is made for pur- 
pose of removing the testicle only. After which proceed to drop 
cord into the abdominal cavity and close ring and skin incision 
in the usual way. 

After Care and Treat) a eat — Confine the animal in clean pen 
of small size for ten days ; during this period limit the feed. Na- 
ture will take care of removing the sutures. 



124 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER IX. 



CASTRATION OF THE RAM. 



Objects and Indications — The operation is rarely ever per- 
formed upon aged rams. Its greatest application is to lambs. 
Castration hastens growth and development and improves the 
character of the mutton and fleece. Castrated rams and lambs are 
known as "weathers" and "weathers" command a much higher 
market price than rams. If male sheep are to be raised to full 
maturity for mutton purposes they should always be castrated as 
lambs. 

Age— From a week to 10 days old is a popular and safe age at 
which to castrate. However, some prefer operating later. There 
is no doubt but what the mortality rate following castration 
rapidly increases with age. For that reason if for no other the 
early operation is most advantageous. 

Season — Winter and early spring. Weather conditions play 
an important part in the success of the operation. Cold rains and 
sudden drops in temperature should be avoided as much as possi- 
ble. Make an extra effort to select seasonable weather. 

Preparation — Limited diet for 21 hours before operating. 

Restraint and Position— A favorite method— both as regards 
restraint and position — is for the assistant to grasp the legs and 
place the animal on its rump as shown in Figure 95. 

Figure 96 illustrates a satisfactory method of confining large 
and heavy rams for castration. Both fore and the right hind legs 
are fixed together by means of a cord (E). The assistant grasps 
left hind leg (F) and flexes it against the body. With right hand 
(Gr) lie controls the head. With a ram in this position the scrotum 
is readily accessible. 

Instruments — 1. Williams' castrating knife. (Fig. 2.) 
2. Swine and sheep emasculator. (Fig. 80.) 



Animal Castration 



125 




Fig. 95 — Restraint and Position for Castration. X. Y. Right and Left Hand of 

Assistant;; Z, Scrotum. 

Anatomy— The scrotum is decidedly punch shaped and pos- 
sesses a distinct constructed neck at its summit. The skin of 
scrotum is covered by short, dense wool. The testicles are similar 
in shape to those of the bull and their Long axis is almost vertical. 
In comparison to size of animal the testicles of the ram are un- 
usually large. The testicle of a 60 pound lamb will weigh as much 
as the testicle of a 1400 pound horse. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of the Ope- 
rator— Boil instruments for 15 to 20 minutes after which immerse 



126 



Animal Castration 












Fig. 96 — Restraint and Position for Castration of Large Rams. E, Three Feet 

Fixed Together; F, Assistant's Left Hand; G, Assistant's 

Right Hand; H, Scrotum. 



N 




Fig. 97 — Testicle of Ram. L, Globus Major of Epididymus; M, Testes; 
N, Spermatic Cord. 



Animal Castration 



127 



them in clean vessel containing Lysol or Cresol compound U. S. P. 
in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. 

Disinfection of Operative Field — The scrotum should be 
soaked by means of pledget of cotton saturated with antiseptic 
solution. Cleanliness here goes far in obtaining successful re- 
sults. If time is not too limited it is best to remove wool from 
scrotum by clipping. 

Operative Technique— There are two methods of making the 
scrotal incisions. 

(a) Lateral, Figure 98. 

(b) End, Figure 99. 







Fig. 98 — Lateral Incision. A, Right Testicle in Scrotum; B, Scrotum; C, Knife; 
D, Right Hand; E, Left Hand; F, Incision. 

In making the lateral or side incision (Figure 98) the left side 
of scrotum is grasped by left hand of operator and sufficient ten- 



128 



Animal Casteation 



sion made — by squeezing— to render skin of right side tense. With 
knife in right hand the incision is made by one sweep of the knife 
through all coats of the scrotum and the testicle itself exposed. 
This incision should be about 3 1-2 inches long and extend well 
down to the apex. The opposite scrotal incision is made in like 
manner. With the right hand grasp the testicles and with the left 
hand strip the spermatic cords of their coverings until they are 




%„ 



Fig. 99 — End Incision. H, Left Testicle in Scrotum; G, Right Testicle in 
Scrotum; I, Knife; J, Right Hand; K, Left Hand; L, Incision. 

well isolated as high as the summit of the scrotum. With left 
hand grasp testicle and make two pounds traction on the cord- 
outwards— at the same time apply emasculator to cord and force 
it well up near summit of scrotum. Then by bringing the handles 
of the instrument together the cord and its coverings are severed. 
The end incision method (Figure 99), has many advantages 



Animal Castration 



129 



over the one already described and is to be preferred. Grasp apex 
of scrotum in left hand and remove one third of it— from the apex 
—by one sweep of the knife. The testicles surrounded by their 
tunica vaginalis will now drop down below the incision. By a 
knick of the knife incise the tunics and expose the testicles, after 
which grasp them (of course separately) with the right hand and 
make outward traction, at the same time isolate the cords by strip- 
ping them of their coverings to a point near summit of scrotum. 
Next with left hand grasp the testicle, at the same time producing 
two pounds outward traction on the spermatic cord. With right 
hand apply emasculator to cord and by forcing it well up to 
summit of scrotum sever the cord and its coverings by bringing 
handles of instrument together. Figure 100 illustrates manner in 
which cords are severed with the emasculator. 



I 










Fig. 100 — Severing Spermatic Cords and Their Coverings with Emasculator. 

After Care and Treatment— The most essential precaution to 
be taken after rams and lambs are castrated is to place them in 
sanitary surroundings, away from danger of wound contamination 
by barn and barnyard manure and dirt. In favorable weather pas- 



130 Animal Castration 

ture is the ideal place. In bad weather a previously cleaned hall- 
way or shed well bedded with fresh straw is to be desired. Sheep 
are quite prone to septic infection, hence to attain successful re- 
sults infection must be strictly guarded against for several days 
after castration. Never operate during "fly time." 



Animal Castration 131 



CHAPTER X. 

CASTRATION OF THE DOG. 

Objects and Indications— The principal object to be attained 
in castrating the dog is to deprive him of his nightly habit of "visit- 
ing the society female members of the canine species in his 
neighborhood and oftentimes in some other male dog's neighbor- 
hood." Castration has the direct and immediate effect of inducing 
a male dog to be contented with his home surroundings. The only 
other reason for castration would be for the relief of certain path- 
ological conditions of the scrotum, testicle, inguinal canal and 
penis. 

Age— Dogs can be safely castrated at almost any age. However, 
the younger the better. Puppies may be easily castrated at 4 
weeks old. 

Season— The selection of season does not play any important 
part in castration of the dog. The operation may be done at any 
season. 

Preparation —None. 

Restraint — Always apply a tape muzzle to begin with. Small 
dogs can be easily and safely held by an assistant as shown in 
Figure 101. The fore and hind legs are crossed over one another 
and held tightly. The index finger of each hand is crossed under 
the throat and the thumbs are passed back behind the head. In 
this position and held in this manner the scrotum is available and 
the operation may be safely proceeded with. 

Large dogs may be held by two or more assistants or they may 
be secured by tying the legs together as illustrated in Figure 105. 
The operator should stand out of range of the strong stream of 
urine which is sure to come as soon as the knife strikes the 
testicle. 

Instruments — 1. Williams' castrating knife. (Figure 2.) 
2. Canine and feline emasculator (Figures 102 and 103.) 



132 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 101— Restraint of Dog for Castration. 




Fig. 102— McKillip's Canine and Feline Emasculator. 



Animal Castration 133 




Fig. 103 — Canine and Feline Emasculator. 

Anatomy — The scrotum is suspended below the anis. The 
raphe or "median line" is not well marked. The skin covering 
the scrotum is soft and thin and covered sparsely with short stiff 
hairs. 

Spermatic Cord— The spermatic cord and its covering — tunica 
vaginalis— are slender in size and long. 

Testicle — The testicle is oval in shape and comparatively small. 
Its long axis is oblique. 

Sterilization of lustra meats and Cleansing Operator's Hands — 
Boil instruments for 15 to 20 minutes, after which immerse them 
in Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P., in the strength of one table- 
spoonful to each quart of warm water. The operator's hands 
should be thoroughly washed with tincture green soap and warm 
water— using scrub brush— after which wash them in above men- 
tioned antiseptic solution. 

Preparation of Operative Field— If much hair is present on 
the scrotum it should be clipped off, after which wash scrotum 
with antiseptic solution and paint it with tincture iodine. 

Operative Technique — The modus operandi is very simple and 
only requires a few seconds time in its performance. With left 
thumb and index finger grasp scrotum above testicles and make its 
skin tense by squeezing. With knife in right hand— by two sweeps 



134 



Animal Castration 




j k 



Pig. 104 — Genitals of the Dog. (Ellenberger-Leisering Atlas.) a, Acetabulum; b, 
Obturator Foramen; c, Ischio — Cavernosum Porton; e, Vas Deferens; f, Bulbus Glandis; 
i, Testicle; j, Tunica Vaginalis; k, Scrotum; !, Prepuce; m, Spermatic Cord. 

—the two scrotal incisions arc made exposing both testicles. These 
incisions should be amply large and extend well down to lower 
portion of scrotum in order to afford free drainage. 

The concluding step is to grasp testicle with left hand at the 
same time making slight traction on the cord. With right hand 
the emasculator is placed on the cord and forced down close to the 
scrotal incisions. The cord is now severed by bringing handles 
of instrument together. 

After Care and Treatment — About all that is necessary is exer- 



Animal Castration 



135 




Fig. 105 — Scrotal Incisions. K, Left Hand of Assistant; L, Scrotal Incisions; 
M, Legs Fixed Together with Cord; X, Muzzle. 

cise and sanitary surroundings with daily observation for purpose 
of detecting the appearance of the several sequelae of castration. 

castration of the cryptorc h 1 1 > and monorchid dog. 
("rtdgling.") 

Objects and Indications— On account of the universally recog- 
nized fact that cryptorchidism in animals is transmitted by 
heredity, it is very important that such a dog should not be used 
for stud purposes. This applies more particularly to the monor- 
chid than it does to the cryptorchid. On account of the former- 




Fig. 106 — Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator. A, Table: B, Muzzle; 

C, Legs Fixed Together with Cord; D, Left Testicle; E, Right 

Testicle; F, Emasculator. 



136 



Animal Castration 



with one testicle descended— being able to propagate his species 
while the latter — both testicles inside the abdominal cavity— is 
incapable of reproduction. In order to cause the breed of such 
animals to cease castration should be resorted to. Aside from the 
above reason for castration the operation is valuable in causing a 
dog to remain contented at home. 

Age— All ages, preferably young dogs. 

Season — All seasons. 

Preparation— It is essential to have the alimentary tract 
empty. This is accomplished by withholding food for 24 hours 
previous to operating. 




Fig. 107 — View of Internal Abdominal Organs. G, Descended Testicle; H, Rectum; 

T, Urinary Bladder; J, Undescended Testicle Located in the 

Sub-Lumbar Region; K, Intestines. 



Animal Castration 137 

Restraint— Preferably on operating table elevated to perpen- 
dicular position or in the absence of a table the animal may be 
hung up to a wall or post. In either event the tape muzzle is ap- 
plied as a protection against bites. 

Instruments— 1. Miles' hook castrating knife. (Figure 25.) 

2. Emascnlator. (Figures 102 and 103.) 

3. Richter's needle holder. (Figure 34.) 

4. Surgeon's needle (full curved ) carrying 20 inches of No. 12 
braided silk for sutures. 

Anatomy— A comprehensive idea of the location and relation of 




Fig. 108 — Abdominal Incision. 



138 



Animal Castration 



the parts concerned in this operation can be had by reference to 
Figure 107. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands 
— Boil instruments for 15 to 20 minutes, after which immerse them 
in Lvsol or Cresol Compound U. S. P., in the strength of one table- 
spoonful to one quart of warm water. Wash hands thoroughly 
with soap and warm water, using scrub brush. 

Disinfection of Operative Field — Clip or shave hair from field 
of operation after which wash with soap and warm water until 
parts are visibly clean. Sponge off with antiseptic solution and 
paint with tincture iodine. 

Operative Technique— If left testicle is the one undescended a 




Fig. 109 — Severing Spermatic Cord with the Emasculator. 
B, Testicle; C, Emasculator. 



A, Incision; 



Animal Castration 



139 



point is selected to the left of the median line of the abdomen and 
about midway between brim of pelvis and prepuce (See Figure 
108). " 

The incision is made 2 1-2 inches long— through all coats of the 
abdominal wall. Through this incision the index finger of right 
hand is passed and a search made in the sub-lumbar region for the 
spermatic cord. This cord is usually easy to locate. Withdraw 
cord through abdominal incision and the testicle follows natur- 
ally. Sever cord with the emascnlator (Figure 109) and replace 
its stump in abdominal cavity. All that remains to he done is to 
suture up abdominal incision. This is done by two "through and 
through" interrupted sutures. See Figure IK). 




Fig. 110— Incision Closed with 3 Interrupted Sutures. D, Sutures; E, Incision. 



140 Animal Castration 

After Care and Treatment -The dog should be placed in sani- 
tary close quarters for 6 or 7 days ; during this period no exercise 
must be allowed and the diet should be of a light, easily digestible 
character, and limited. The two end sutures may be removed on 
the third day and the middle one on the fifth day. 



Animal Castration 



141 



CHAPTER XI. 

CASTEATION OF THE CAT. 

Objects and Indications— In order that they will remain con- 
tented at home. 

Age— The operation can be done safely at any age. 

Season — All seasons. 

Preparation— Same, as for castration of the dog. 

Restraint — Remember that a cat will scratch as well as bite and 
we must take the necessary precautions to protect ourselves from 
both. Two favorite methods of restraint— either of which are 
satisfactory— are as follows: 

(a) With all four feet tucked up against the abdomen, wrap 
the animal in a towel, leaving its posterior portion exposed. See 
Figure 111. 




Fig. Ill— Castration with Cat Wrapped in Towel. 



142 



Animal Castration 



(b) Place animal in an ordinary rubber boot with bind legs 
thrust through the finger straps. See Figure 112. 
Position— Dorsal. 
Instruments— Same as for castration of the dog. See page 

131. 

Anatomy — Similar to that of the dog except on a smaller scale. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands— 
Same as for castration of the dog. See page 133. 

Preparation of Operative Field — Same as that for castration 
of the dog, with the exception that special pains must be taken to 
see that the hair from scrotum is removed. See page 133. 

Operative Technique— Same as for castration of the dog. See 
pages 133-134. 




Fig. 112 — Castration with Cat in a Rubber Boot. A, Boot; B, B, Finger Straps; 
C, Severing Spermatic Cord with the Emasculator. 




Fig. 113 — Testicle After Removal. 



After Care and Treatment— Daily observation for the appear- 
ance of sequelae of castration. 



Animal Castration* 143 



CHAPTER XII. 

CAPONIZING. 

Definition — Caponizing is a term applied to castrating fowls. 
In this country the operation is practiced almost exclusively on 
male chickens (••roosters"), and sometimes turkeys. Such fowls 
when castrated are known as capons. The capon bears the same 
relation to the " rooster" as the " steer" does to the bull, the ''bar- 
row" to the boar, etc. 

History— It is impossible to say just how long the operation 
of caponizing has been performed. It seems quite certain, how- 
ever, that the practice was familiar to the Chinese more than two 
thousand years ago. Later it was practiced by the Greeks and 
Romans and through medieval times, by the people of middle and 
southern Europe, until in recent years it has been introduced into 
America. At present capons are most universally known and ap- 
preciated in France, although within the last few years the busi- 
ness of producing them has advanced rapidly in this country. 
Much of the larger part of the industry is confined to that portion 
of the United States east of Philadelphia, though increasing num- 
bers of capons are being raised in the North Central States. Dur- 
ing the winter months '-capon" is regularly quoted in the markets 
of the larger eastern cities. Massachusetts and New Jersey are the 
great centers for the growing of capons, while Boston, New York 
and Philadelphia are the great markets. 

Objects and Indications — Caponizing changes a male chicken's 
disposition to the extent that he no longer shows an inclination to 
fight, becomes sluggish and quiet and more doeile than formerly. 
The true capon never crows. The comb and wattles cease growing. 
His society is not sought by other chickens— either roosters or 
hens— he becomes an outcast and on this account oftentimes takes 
up with baby chicks even to the extent of becoming a mother to 
them; scratch and work for them by day and hover them by night. 
On account of the more peaceful disposition of the capon his body 
develops rapidly and he grows larger and takes on fat more readily 



144 



Animal Castration 



than the ordinary male bird. At same time the body is developing 
the texture of the flesh is improving, and it is now a well recognized 
fact that the flavor and texture of the flesh of a capon is as much 
improvement over that of a rooster as the meat of a steer is over 
that of a bull. Hence capons are entitled to and do command a 
higher market price than either roosters or hens. Capons are less 
trouble to care for and to keep within prescribed bounds than 
other chickens. The economic value of caponizing justifies its 
more general practice. 

Selection of Breeds— Always select from the large breeds, viz: 
Light Brahmas, Cochins, Plymouth Rocks, Langshans, Wyan- 
dotts, Orpingtons, etc. 

Age — Two or three months is the best age at which to operate. 
The chicken should weigh from 1 1-2 to 2 pounds. Never operate 
after five months old. The mortality is low in young fowls and in- 
creases with age. 

Season — Summer— June, July and August. 




Fig. 114 — Restraint of the Fowl for Caponizing. A, A, Weight at Ends of Cords; 
B, Cords Looped Around Legs; C, Cord Looped Around Wings. 



Animal Castration 



145 



Restraint— The most economical and at the same time most 
satisfactory method, of restraint is illustrated in Figure 114. With 
a barrel or box used as an improvised operating table one cord is 
looped around the wings and another around the legs. The length 
of these cords will depend upon the size of box or barrel being used. 
To the free end of each cord a weight— one half brick— is attached. 
The fowl is now laid on table and the weights will produce suffi- 
cient traction on cords to hold it in proper position. 

Another method of restraint favored and used by some is a 
specially constructed board. See Figure 115. It will be observed 
that a self -locking staple is used to confine the wings, while the 
legs are confined by a loop strap with a weight suspended at its 
end. The holes through board makes it adjustable to all size fowls. 




Fig. 115 — Caponizing Board. A, Board; C, Feet Imprisoned in Strap Loop; 
B, Weight on End of Strap; E, Wings Imprisoned in Staple. 

Instruments — several different styles and kinds of instruments 
for performing the caponizing operation are on the American 



10 



146 



Animal Castration 



market. Most of them are satisfactory after the operator becomes 
accustomed to handling them. They consist of: 

1. Knife for making abdominal incision. 

2. Spreaders or retractors for separating the ribs. 

3. Appliances for removing the testicle. 

Some of the best of each of these are illustrated below. The 
operator should make his own selection. The author's preference 
is the " Farmer" Miles set. 




Fig. 116— Miles" Caponizing Knife. 




Fig. 117 — Miles' Spreaders. 




Fig. 118 — Spring Spreader 



Animal Castration 



147 




Fig. 119— Wire Spring Spreader. 




Pig. 120— Miles' Forceps. 




Fig. 121 — Scoop and Hook. 




Fig. 122— Clipping Knife, Scoop and Hook. 

Anatomy— The testicles are situated in the abdominal cavity. 
They are small, bean-shaped, sett, very friable and light colored. 
Their location is on each side of the vertebral column, immediately 
behind the lungs and in front of the kidneys. See Figure 123. 
They are opposite the last intercostal space." Above them is the 
aorta and vena cava. 



148 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 123— View of Testicles. 



Preparation— The most essential step connected with caponiz- 
ing is to have the fowls entirely empty at time of operating. This 
is accomplished by withholding food and water for 30 hours. 
Never attempt to operate upon a "full" chicken unless you are 
looking for trouble. 

Operative Technique— Unless a satisfactory artificial light is 
available the proper time of day at which to operate is between 
the hours of 10 a. m. and 2 p. m., as at this time the sun is high and 
in proper position to reflect its bright light into the abdominal 
cavity. Good light is one of the essentials. Never attempt to 
operate without it. With fowl properly confined and in such posi- 
tion as will enable the sunlight to illuminate the abdominal cavity 
— operate out of doors— instruments and hands of operator 
clean, proceed as follows: 

1. Pluck feathers from field of operation. 

2. Chill parts by glass full of ice water being slowly poured 
over skin. This chilling process lias a good influence in preventing 
cutaneous h em < > rrha ge. 



Animal Castration 



149 



3. With knife in right hand make abdominal incision by incis- 
ing the muscles in last intercostal space (between last two ribs). 
Since the intercostal artery passes along the posterior (back) bor- 
der of the ribs, this incision should closely follow the anterior 
(front) border of the last rib. The first incision includes all layers 
of the abdominal wall with exception of the peritoneum. 

4. Insert spreaders and spread the ribs apart sufficiently to ad- 
mit scoop or forceps. 

5. Knick peritoneum. This will open the abdominal cavity. 

6. The testicles are now located and if both are to be removed 
from one abdominal incision the lowermost one should be removed 
first, otherwise the hemorrhage incident to removing the upper one 
would interfere with removal of the lower. There is not serious 
objection to operating from both sides, in which event the upper- 
most testicle is removed first. 




Cord; D, Vertebral Column; E, £2iAMr2&S^ 



150 



Animal Castration 



With scoop or forceps applied to the spermatic cord— care be- 
ing taken not to include the aorta or vena cava— the testicle is 
removed by twisting the cord with several turns of the instrument. 
Be sure and remove the entire testicle as if any portion of it is 
left, the fowl will crow, and be what is known as a " slip. " " Slips ' ' 
are not capons and are undesirable. 

7. Remove the spreaders. This allows the ribs to come together 
and close the abdominal wound. If a mistake has been made by 
severing either the aorta or vena cava the fowl will die in a very 
few minutes from internal hemorrhage. Should death occur from 
such source the fowl can be used for food. 




Fig. 125 — Removing Testicle with Scoop. E, Abdominal Incision in Last Inter- 
costal Space; F, Scoop Applied; G, Spreaders Applied. 

On account of the almost complete immunity of the chicken 
from septic infection, healing of wound usually takes place by 
first intrusion and the fowl makes a quick and satisfactory re- 
covery. 

After Care and Treatment— Upon being released from the 
operating table the capons are usually put in a closed yard where 
they can find shelter, food and water and can be kept quiet. No 
roosts are provided, as the less flying and jumping they do the 
sooner will the wound heal. The capons seem to be very little 



Animal Castration 



151 




Fig. 126 — Removing Testicle with Miles' Forceps. J, Spreaders Applied; 
K, Forceps Applied; L, Abdominal Incision. 



inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed mixed 
with sweet skim milk can be given immediately. Some feeders 
give this in unlimited quantity, while others feed more sparingly 
for a time. if' 

For a week or ten days the newly made capons should be care- 
fully observed to see whether they become '"wind puffed." This is 
a condition caused by air gathering under and puffing out the skin 
near the wound. When observed it can be readily relieved by 
pricking the skin with a needle or knife and pressing out the air. 

Mortality— About 1 to 2 per cent. 



152 Animal Castration 



PART II. 
SPAYING. 

Synonyms — Ovariectomy, Oophorectomy, Ovariotomy. 

Definition — Spaying is a term applied to the operation of im- 
sexing the female. 



Animal Castration 153 



CHAPTER I. 

MARE SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — The principle indication for remov- 
ing the ovaries from mare is to correct the disagreeable and dan- 
gerous vice known as nymphomania, the symptoms of which are 
as follows: Usually when such animals are touched, especially 
while applying harness and saddles, they squat, switch their tails, 
kick, bite, urinate, etc., while at the same time the clitoris moves 
actively. This behavior of the clitoris is similar to its action dur- 
ing oestrum (heat) . Some nymph* unaniac mares are affected with 
such behavior continuously, while in others it is periodical. The 
intensity of the vice also varies in degree in different individuals. 
Some are affected to the extent of actual viciousness. Such ani- 
mals are a public and private nuisance, undesirable to own and 
dangerous to the attendant. Usually removal of the ovaries from 
this class of mares will correct the trouble. The results of the 
operation are not immediate. In fact, even apparent improvement 
may not be had until several weeks — possibly several months — 
have elapsed. The improvement is gradual and oftentimes slow, 
even after it actually begins. Spaying is always justified in mares 
of this class. 

Age — Spay regardless of age when operation is indicated. 

Season — Spring, winter and fall. 

Preparation — It is necessary for the intestinal tract — rectum 
in particular — to be empty. This is usually accomplished by with- 
holding feed for 30 hours previous to operating. To make sure 
that the rectum is empty it is well to administer an enema imme- 
diately previous to operating. Douche out the vagina and wash 
aniSj vulva, tail and surrounding parts with Lysol or Cresol com- 
pound U. S. P., in the strength of one tablespoonful to each quart 
of water. Bandage upper one-third of tail. Chloral or cannabis 
Indica administered 30 or 40 minutes before operating is helpful 
in most instances. 

Posil ion — Standing. 



154 



Animal Castration 



Restraint — If a suitable operating stock is available it should 
be used. In lieu of the stocks a narrow box stall and slings are the 
next best method of restraint for spaying operation. When nar- 
row stall and sling are used it becomes necessary to confine the 
hind feet in such a way that the operator is not subjected to the 
danger of kicks. The simplest method which will answer the pur- 
pose is illustrated in Figure 127. It consists of the nose twitch 
applied and held by an assistant; also an 18-foot %-inch cotton 
rope and one hobble strap. Loop end of rope around off hind 
pastern, then pass it through D of near hind, then upwards and 
forwards between fore legs, over withers and under main rope 
behind elbow. Another method is the Hippo Lasso. (See Figs. 
135 and 136.) 




Fig. 127 — Restraint for Spaying in Standing Posture. 



While the last two methods described are simple and will answer 
the purpose, there is at least one quite serious objection to them, 
viz: The animal may in her struggles cast herself, or she may 
voluntarily lie down, which greatly interferes with the progress 



Animal Castration 



155 



of the operation. Whenever possible it is always advisable to for- 
tify yourself against the animal lying- down. 

Instruments— 1. Colin 's Scalpel (Fig. 128) is decidedly the 
most satisfactory knife for vaginal spaying. This knife possesses 
a heavy blade with wide belly guarded by an easily manipulated 
sliding shield. A knife thus constructed can be safely handled in- 
side the vaginal canal. 




Fig. 128— Colin's Scalpel. 



2. Williams' Ratchet Spaying Ecraseur ( Fig. 129). This in- 
strument is so constructed that it takes up very little space in the 
vaginal canal, and is sufficiently long to reach the ovaries of the 




Fig. 129 — Williams' Ratchet Spaying Ecraseur. 

largest mare or cow. The ratchet handle enables operator to manip- 
ulate the instrument with one hand while the other hand remains 
in the cavity. If an extra assistant is available for the purpose of 
handling the instrument on the outside, then Dunn's spaying 
ecraseur (Fig. 130) is an excellent instrument. 




Fig. 130 — Dunn's Spaying Ecraseur. 

3. Vaginal spaying speculum. There are two satisfactory 
spavin- speculums now on the market. A, Williams' Speculum 
(Fig. 133); B. Paseley's Speculum (Fig. 134). 



156 



Animal Castration 



Anatomy — In order to spay mares satisfactorily it is essential 
that a general idea of the anatomy of vulva, vagina, uterus and 
ovaries be possessed. Lack of space here forbids going into minute 
detail. However, the more important points will have attention. 

Vulva — The vulva is the external opening of the genital and 
urinary tracts. It is an ovoid slit situated in the perineal region 




Fig. 131 — View of Internal Genitals. A, Rectum,; B, Vagina; C, Uterus; D, D, Cornua; 
E, E, Ovaries; F, F, Broad Ligaments; G, G, Abdominal Walls. 

below the anis, and consists of two lips and two commissures. The 
space between the vulva below and the anis above is the perineum. 
In a depression on its floor (Fossa Navicularis) lies the clitoris. 



Animal Castration 



157 



In virgin mares the hymen separates the vulva from the vagina. 
Inside, on the floor of the vulva, opens the meatus urinarius, which 
is the outlet from the bladder. The mucous membrane lining in- 
side of vulva is rose colored, and the skin covering.it externally is 
soft, thin and devoid of hair. 

Vagina— The vagina is situated between the rectum and blad- 
der, and is tubular in shape. It extends horizontally through the 
pelvic cavity from the cervix to the vulva. Its walls are capable 
of great distension. The vagina varies in length in different indi- 
viduals. It is usually from 8 to 10 inches long. Superiorly it is 
related to the rectum, inferiorly to the bladder, laterally to the 
pelvic wall. 

Uterus— The uterus (womb) is a musculo-membranous sac 
situated partly in the pelvic region. It consists of a body and two 




Fig. 132— External and Internal Genital Organs of Mare. A. Vulva; 
Cerv lx (neck of womb) ; D, D, Horns and Fallopian Tubes; E, E, Ovaries; F, Fundus. 

cornua. Superiorly it is related with the rectum, which passes 
between its horns while it is suspended laterally by the broad 
ligaments. Inferiorly it is related with the bladder and convo- 
lutions of the intestines. Its anterior extremity is known as the 
fundus, and is continuous with the cornua. Its posterior extremity 
is continuous with the vagina, constituting the cervix or neck of 



158 Animal Castration 

the womb. This cervix is round, hard and thick. In its center 
is a tube like opening (Fissure). The cornua spring laterally 
from the anterior extremity of the uterus and pass upwards and 
forwards, and to these the suspensory ligaments are attached. At 
their summit the fallopian tubes enter. The uterus has three open- 
ings, viz : Ostium Internum leading through the cervix, and the 
Ostium Uterinum at the end of each horn. 

Fallopian Tubes — These are prolongations of the uterus and 
are for the purpose of conveying the ovum from the ovaries to the 
uterus. They are 10 to 12 inches long and extend from the ovaries 
above to the cornua below. At the upper outlet of the fallopian 
tubes is the fimbriated extremity, which is funnel-shaped and re- 
ceives the ovum direct from the ovary. 

Ovaries — The ovaries are bean-shaped and weigh from 1 to 3 
ounces. They are situated in the sublumbar region of the ab- 
dominal cavity about 4 to 5 inches behind each kidney. They 
hang about 2 to 3 inches to each side of center of vertebral column. 
They are attached above in the sublumbar region by the anterior 
part of the broad ligament. In old animals the ovaries are usually 
hard and fibrous. However, cysts are by no means uncommon. 
The ovarian artery supplies nutrition to the ovary. 

Warning — The rectum must be empty, otherwise it is liable to 
injury from point of knife when thrust through vaginal roof. In 
making incision be sure and press the cervix downwards and for- 
wards with spaying speculum. This is done in order to get site 
of incision away from rectal wall. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands 
-The instruments should be boiled for 15 to 20 minutes, after 
which place them in Lysol of Cresol Compound U. S. P., in the 
strength of one tablespoonful to each quart of water. The oper- 
ator's hands should be thoroughly washed with tincture green 
soap, using scrub brush, after which wash them in above men- 
tioned antiseptic solution. 

Operative Technique — 1. With right hand lubricated with 
carbolized olive oil, carry the spaying speculum (Fiffs. 133 and 
134) into the vagina, and insert its tip into the cervix (neck of 
womb). 



Animal Castration 



159 



2. Withdraw the hand, and with Colin 's scalpel reenter the 
vagina. 




Fig. 133 — Williams' Spaying Speculum, Showing Hand and Knife in Position for Making 

the Vaginal Incision. 




Fig. 134 — Paseley's Spaying Speculum, Showing Position of Hand and Knife for Making 

the Vaginal Incision. 

3. With left hand elevate handle of speculum and make suffi- 
cient pressure downwards and forwards to stretch the roof of the 
vagina. 

4. With blade guarded it is pressed against the roof of the 
vagina directly over the cervix. 



160 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 135 — Mare Confined by Hippo Lasso. A, Right Hand Carrying Colin's Scalpel; B, 
Left Hand Manipulating Spaying Speculum. 

5. Unguard and thrust the blade through the roof of the 
vagina. 

6. Reguard the blade and withdraw the knife, at the same time 
spaying speculum should also be withdrawn. 

7. With left hand enter the vagina and enlarge the opening- 




Fig. 136 — Removing Ovaries. D, Right Arm; E, Spaying Ecraseur; F, Left Arm. 



Animal Castration 



161 



d^St^ flngerS Unti ' ^ Wh ° ,e hMd wi " — the ab- 

aw ova , y , and Ja , s^iftar -— 




^ *2^*1SLEr^. , W I fff i * Vt '™' * ™*: D Vniva- E 



Vagina; N, Vaginal Incision. ° " y ' M ' Pomt ot K ""e Throat TI,roughT„ of ' of 



11 



162 



Animal Castration 



manipulated back and forth until the ovary is severed. With- 
draw severed ovary from abdominal cavity and drop it in the 
vagina. The opposite ovary is then severed in like manner, after 
which withdraw both ovaries and the ecraseur. The operation is 
now completed. By reference to Figures 137 and 138 a compre- 




Fig 138— Removing the Ovary with Ecraseur. A, Right Arm; B, Uterus; C, Anis; 
O, Vulva; E, Ecraseur; F, Vagina; H, Urinary Bladder; J, Broad Ligament; M, Vaginal 
Jn'cision;N, Right Hand; P, Rectum; S, Ovary. 



Animal Castration 263 

stained 3 " "^ '" ^ C ° Vel ' ed St6PS ° f the °P eration ^ 
-1/to- Care and Treatment-Keep head haltered up for 24 

JSi*^? J*«. *>!"•, T ^ vaginal wound require no 
tu utmeiit. The mare is simply placed in a sanitary box stall 

' aldt: n fr'wTT" f01 ' 10 t0 12 da - VS ' aft - wMch she 
should be put back to hard, steady work until the habit is for- 

Sequelae— Colic and Peritonitis. 



164 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER II. 

Cow, Heifer and Calf Spaying. 
cow spaying. 

Objects and Indications — Cows are spayed for two principal 
reasons: 1st, to correct that disagreeable condition known as 
nymphomania ; 2d, to increase duration of lactation period. Spay- 
ing is the only rational treatment for nymphomania, and cows 
thus affected should always be submitted to the operation or else 
sent to the butcher. While the operation has not been generally 
and extensively practiced as a means of controlling lactation, 
nevertheless it is a well recognized fact that spaying a milch cow 
during the height of lactation will not only cause her lactation 
period to last for from 2 to 3 years — uninterrupted by oestrum and 
pregnancy — but the quantity and quality of the milk is increased 
and improved. Milk from spayed cows contains an increased 
amount of cream, caseine and sugar. It is more palatable and more 
wholesome than milk from unspayed cows. When lactation final- 
ly ceases a spayed cow readily takes on fat and is easily put in 
shape for the butcher. The results attained wherever the opera- 
tion has been practiced justifies its more general adoption. 

Age — For treatment of nymphomania they are spayed regard- 
less of age. For increasing duration of lactation period it is best 
to operate after the udder has attained its full development and 
while at height of lactation. This would mean when the second or 
third calf is about 3 to 4 weeks old. Some cows are in their prime 
with second calf, while others are not until the third calf. The 
udder never develops and the milk flow never increases after 
spaying, hence it behooves the operator not to make a mistake in 
selecting the proper time to operate. Never operate during the 
period of "heat." 

Season — Since the vaginal operation is the method recom- 
mended the season does not play an important part. They may 
be spayed with safety at any season. 

Preparation — The alimentary tract, especially rectum, should 



Animal Castration 



165 




Fig. 139 — Spaying Chute and Stocks. 




Fig. 140 — Cow Fixed to Fence by Means of Ropes for Spaying Operation. 



166 Animal Castration 

be empty. Hence it becomes necessary to withhold feed for 30 
hours previous to operating. Immediately before operating the 
rectum should be emptied of its contents either by "back raking" 
or a copious enema. 

Restraint — The operation should always be performed with 
animal in the standing posture. Stocks (Fig. 139) are preferable 
when they are available. However, when stocks are not at hand 
the animal may be quickly fixed to wall or fence with ropes (Fig. 
140) . The head is first fastened to post, after which a 30-foot rope 
is looped around body and fastened to fence or wall as shown. In 
this position the animal can be readily spayed without lying down, 
etc. 

Position — Standing. 

Instruments — 1. Colin 's Scalpel. (Fig. 128.) 

2. Williams' Ratchet Spaying Ecraseur (Fig. 129), or Dunn's 
Spaying Ecraseur (Fig. 130). 

3. Williams' Spaying Speculum (Fig. 133), or Paseley's 
Spaying Speculum (Fig. 134). 

4. Injection pump. 

Anatomy — The anatomy of internal and external generative 
organs of cow similate those of mare to some extent. However, 
in order that the comparative may be studied, we will take up 
briefly each organ separately. 

Vulva — The vulva possesses two thickened labia and two sharp 
commissures, the lower of which is pointed and contains a num- 
ber of long, stiff hairs. 

The clitoris is small and located in lower commissure of the 
vulva. 




Pig. 141— Internal and External Genitals of the Cow. A, Vulva; B, Vagina; C, Uterus; 

D, D, Horns; E, E, Ovaries. 



Animal Castration 167 

Vagina — The vagina is larger and longer than that of the mare, 
varying in length from 8 to 14 inches. Its wall is thick. The 
meatus urinarius opens into its floor about 5 inches from vulva. 

Uterus — The uterus is short and lies almost entirely in the 
abdominal cavity. Its cornua are very long and gradually taper 
toward the fallopian tubes. The cervix is 4% to 5!/2 inches long 
and possesses a thick, tough wall. Its lumen (cervical canal) is 
spiral shaped and small. The internal wall of uterus and horns 
are studded with cotyledons. These are oval in shape and about 
80 to 90 in number. 

Fallopian Tubes — The tubes are longer than in mare. Their 
junction with cornua are not so abrupt as in marc. 

Ovaries — The ovaries are very small when compared to size 
of animal. They are oval in shape and situated usually a little 
above the middle of the lateral margin of the pelvic inlet. How- 
ever, it is by no means uncommon to find them several inches from 
this location. 

Warning — Unless the rectum is empty and the cervix forced 
downward and forward with spaying speculum, the rectal wall 
is liable to be punctured with point of knife. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands 
— Every instrument used in connection with this operation should 
be sterilized by boiling 15 to 20 minutes, after which place them 
in Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., in the strength of 1 table- 
spoonful to each quart of water. The operator's hands should be 
thoroughly washed with tincture green soap, using scrub brush, 
after which wash them in above specified antiseptic solution. The 
operator should not be required to assist in handling the animal. 
Better leave this to assistants. 

Ope rat ire Technique — 1. Douche out vagina thoroughly with 
antiseptic solution, using injection pump. 

2. Wash upper one-third of tail, rectum and vulva with anti- 
septic solution, using cotton sponges. 

3. Lubricate right hand and arm with carbolized olive oil. 

4. "With handle of spaying speculum in left hand the right 
is passed into vagina and the tip of speculum is placed in cervix. 

5. Withdraw right hand, and with ( John's scalpel reenter the 



168 



Animal Castration 



vagina and place knife — with bladed guarded — against roof of 
vagina immediately over the cervix. (See Fig. 142.) 

6. With left hand raise handle of spaying speculum and make 
downward and forward pressure sufficient to stretch walls of 
vagina taut. 

7. Unguard blade of knife and thrust it through the vaginal 



/E.\ 



ir ^ 




s 



Fig. 142 — Making Incision Through Vaginal Roof. A, Right Arm; B, Uterus; C, 
Rectum; D, Vulva; E, Spaying Speculum; F, Vagina; G, Cervix; H, Urinary Bladder; 
I, Broad Ligament; J, Rectum; K, Left Hand; L. Ovary; M, Point of Knife; N, Perfora- 
tion in Roof of Vagina. 



Animal Castration 



169 



roof, including peritoneum, after which re-guard blade and drop 
knife on floor of vagina. 

8. With index and second finger enlarge the perforation by 
stretching and tearing until the whole hand can be thrust into the 
abdominal cavity. (See Fig. 143.) 

9. With left hand pass ecraseur into vagina, where its chain is 
grasped with right hand and carried into abdominal cavity. One 






^ 






V 



( 



\ ) 




■ //£ j 





ib :A 




K 



- 



Fig. 143— Severing Ovary with Ecraseur. A, Right Arm; B, Uterus- E Ecraseur- F 



J, Right Hand; P, Rectum; S. Ovary. 



170 Animal Castbation 

of the ovaries is now located, the chain loop placed above it, and 
by ratchet movement of handle the chain loop is closed and the 
ovaries' attachment severed. The opposite one is removed in like 
manner, and both are brought out when hand and ecraseur are 
withdrawn. 

After Care and Treatment — Sanitary quarters and limited diet 
for several days constitute the necessary after care and treatment. 

HEIFER SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — Heifers are spayed for the sole pur- 
pose of growing them for desirable beef animals. Spaying ap- 
pears to modify or alter the whole organism, especially as regards 
external symmetry and muscular development. There is a de- 
cided tendency to quicker growth, and spayed heifers are prone to 
take on fat rapidly at most any age. Such animals can be grown 
to maturity without the inconveniences of "heat" and pregnancy, 
and command the same price on the market as steers. They may 
be allowed to comingle with other animals in the herd — including 
bulls — with the assurance that pregnancy will not occur. The 
operation has been practiced extensively for years on the Western 
ranches with gratifying results. It should be encouraged and 
more widely practiced everywhere beef cattle are grown. As an 
economic operation its value is hard to overestimate. It is in- 
deed a simple and easy operation to perform, and is accompanied 
by a low mortality rate. Where once introduced its many merits 
will usually commend its more general practice. 

Age — The most preferable age is 8 to 12 months, care being 
taken to spay before the heifer becomes pregnant. 

Season — Spring and fall. Spaying should be done in the spring 
before flies appear, and in the fall after they disappear. Not ad- 
visable to operate during fly time. 

Preparation — Withhold feed for 24 hours previous to operat- 
ing in order to have alimentary tract comparatively empty. Water 
in limited amount may be allowed. 

Position — Stan ding. 

Restraint — Spaying stocks (Fig. 139) are ideal means of re- 
straint. When stocks are not available the quickest and at the 



Animal Castration 



171 



same time one of the best methods of restraint is to tie head to gate 
post and have an assistant draw tail between slats of gate above 
the animal. (See Fig. 144). The object in using crack above the 
animal is to prevent lying down. A good strong assistant by trac- 
tion on tail can hold animal against gate in such manner as to limit 
movement from side to side and up and down. In this position the 
flank region is readily available for operation. 




Fig. 144 — Restraint of Heii'er for Flank Operation. 

Instruments — 1. Hairclippers. (Fig. 145.) 

2. Curved head spaying emasculator. (Fig. 146.) This is by 
far the most satisfactory instrument yet devised for flank spaying. 
It is easy to handle, takes up very little space in the incision and 
abdominal cavity, besides controls hemorrhage perfectly. Two 
other spaying emasculators (Figs. 147 and 148) are fairly satis- 
factory. Especially is Figure 147 a good one. 

3. "Farmer" Miles' hook castrating knife ( Fie. 25), or Jami- 
son's spaying knife (Fig. 149). The author prefers the Miles' 
knife. 

4. Suturing fork. (Fig. 150.) The object of this fork is to 
hold edges of skin wound while the needle is being thrust through. 



172 



Animal Castration 



It is also provided with a knife for purpose of cutting suture 
material. 

5. Suturing needle. There are two needles suitable for pur- 
pose of closing the wound: (a) Miles' palm needle (Fig. 151), 
and Mooy's ring handle needle (Fig. 152). The author prefers 
the Miles' needle. However, in the West many spayers use the 
other style needle. 

6. Curved scissors. (Fig. 35.) 

7. Suture material. This may be either linen or silk. The 
author prefers No. 15 braided silk. 




Fig. 145 — Hair Clipper. 




Fig. 146 — Curved Head Spaying Emasculator. 



Animal Castration 



173 




Fig. 147 — Spaying Emasculator. 




Fig. 148 — Spaying Emasculator. 




Fig. 149 — Jamison's Spaying Knife. 




Fig. 150— Suturing Fork. 



174 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 151 — Miles' Palm Needle. 




Fig. 152 — Mooy's Needle. 



4 1 natomy — The anatomy of internal and external genital organs 
are same as cow. (See page 166.) The flank region possesses a 
well defined triangle, through the center of which the abdominal 
incision is made. The tissues penetrated by this incision are as 
follows: Skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, fascia, external 
and internal oblique abdominal muscles and peritoneum. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator 
— Same as for cow spaying. (See page 167.) If the operator is 
right-handed, it is best to invade the left flank. If left-handed, 
the right flank should be invaded. 

Operative Technique — 1. Clip hair from site of operation. 

2. Wash parts with soap and warm water, using scrub brush. 
Special care should be taken to remove all loose hair from the field, 
and sponge off with antiseptic solution. As a further precaution 
against septic infection it is well to paint skin with tincture iodine. 
Iodine. 

3. With knife in right hand, beginning 2 inches below trans- 
verse process of lumbar vertebrae, a slightly diagonal incision 
3y 2 inches long should be made through the skin only. The exact 
site of this incision is through middle of triangle between the ex- 
ternal angle of the illium and posterior border of the last rib. 
(See L, Figs. 153 and F, 154.) 



Animal Castration 



175 




Fig. 153 — Making Skin Incision. L, Incision; M, Knife; N. Right Hand. 




Fig. 154 — Skin Incision. F, External Oblique Abdominal Muscle. 



176 



Animal Castration 



4. In the center of this skin incision the knife point should 
be thrust through the abdominal wall, making a perforation large 
enough to admit one finger only. The knife is now put aside, as 
you have no further use for it. 

5. One finger of the operating hand is thrust through the ab- 
dominal wall perforation, and by stretching the wound two fingers 
are admitted — index fingers of each hand. With these two fingers 
tear the muscular fibers apart sufficiently to admit the whole hand. 

6. With left hand inside the abdominal cavity the body of the 
uterus is located, after which follow its right cornua upwards 
and backwards until right ovary is encountered. 

7. With right hand the emasculator is now passed along the 




Fig. 155 — Severing the Ovaries. O, Left Arm; P, Incision; Q, Emasculator; R, Right 

Hand. 

left arm through the incision, and its head placed above the ovary, 
and by bringing the handles together the ovary is severed from its 
attachment. (See Fig. 155.) 

8. The left ovary is now located by following the right cornua 



Animal Castration 



177 



back to the body of uterus where the left cornua is encountered. 
By following it upwards and backwards the left ovary is encoun- 
tered and severed in like maimer. 

9. Withdraw the hand — containing both ovaries — with instru- 
ment. When this is done the fibers of the internal and external 
oblique abdominal muscles come together and anatomically close 
the wound with the exception of the skin incision. 

10. With 3 interrupted sutures the skin incision is closed and 
the operation is completed. (See Fig. 156.) 




Fig. 156 — The Skin Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. X, Sutures; O, Incision, 

Incision Illustrated and Explained — The exact method of in- 
vading the abdominal cavity through the flank incision is of special 
importance if successful spaying is to be done. Undoubtedly the 
incision is the most important step of the whole operation. It is 
made and closed as follows: (See Figs. 157, 158 and 159. Study 
these illustrations carefully.) With knife in right hand the skin 
incision G. G, (Fig. 157) is made. Thrust point of knife through 



12 



178 



Animal Castration 

. 




Fig. 157 — E, Muscular Fibers of Internal Oblique and External Oblique Slightly Divided; 
F, F, External Oblique Abdominal Muscle; G, G, Lips of Skin Incision. 

remaining portion of the abdominal wall (external oblique and in- 
ternal oblique abdominal muscles and peritoneum). With fingers 
this perforation (A, Fig. 158) is enlarged by tearing the fibers of 
the external oblique apart B, B, and at the same time those of the 
internal oblique C, C are separated in the opposite direction until 
the whole hand is admitted. When the hand is withdrawn the 
muscular fibers anatomically come together (see Fig. 157) and 
practically close the wound with exception of the skin incision. 
With three interrupted sutures the skin incision is closed and the 
operation completed (see Fig. 159). 

This method of making flank incision far excels in every re- 
spect the one which requires cutting through the abdominal mus- 
cles. When these muscle fibers are cut you have a large gaping 
wound which requires weeks and oftentimes months for healing. 



Animal Castration 



179 




Fig. 158. 

With fibers divided by tearing, the skin alone is sutured and the 
whole wound heals rapidly. 

After Care and Treatment — Place animals on pasture or in 
sanitary quarters. The wounds should be observed from day to 
day for stitch abscesses, etc. Should abscesses develop the suture 
should be removed and the pus allowed to escape. The sutures 
should be removed, when possible, about the eighth day. Often- 
times the sutures are not removed, in which event they finally 
slough out. 

CALF SrAYING. 

Objects and Indications — Calves are spayed for the same pur- 
poses that heifers are spayed, viz.: the operation hastens their 
growth and development, besides improves the texture and nutri- 
tive properties of the meat. Spayed calves may be raised to full 
maturity without the bother of either "heat" or pregnancy. An- 



180 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 159— Skin Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures. H, H, Lips of Skin In- 
cisions; I, J, K, Sutures. 



other reason for calf spaying is that the mortality rate is less in 
young than in older animals. There are two approved methods of 
spaying calves, viz. : belly method and flank method. 

Age — The favorite age for calf spaying is two to four months 
old. 

Season — Spring and fall. 

Preparation — Same as heifer spaying. 

Position — Lateral, recumbent or hanging, depending upon 
whether the belly or flank is to be invaded. 

Restraint — For flank operation the calf is simply stretched 
full length on the ground by rope looped above hind and fore 
ankles. (See Fig. 160.) For belly operation the animal is sus- 
pended by cord or small size rope looped over both hocks and 



Animal Castration 181 

attached to a beam or hook above. The site of incision should be 
about opposite breast of the operator. 

Instruments— Same as heifer spa vino-. (See pages 171-173.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands 
— Same as for heifer spaying. (See page 174.) 




Fig. 160— Calf Cast and Tied for Spaying Operation. (Flank Method.) 

Operative Technique— (Flank Method.) The hair is clipped 
from over site of incision. Parts washed with soap and warm 




Fig. 161-Removing Ovary from Calf (flank method). K, Ovary; L, Emasculator- M 

Hand. 



182 



Animal Castration 



water, after which sponge off with antiseptic solution. As a fur- 
ther precaution against septic infection it is well to paint the skin 
with tincture iodine. The incision is made similar to that em- 
ployed in heifer spaying (pages 177-179) with the exception that in 
the calf a much smaller one is used since only the index and sec- 
ond finger are introduced into the abdominal cavity, whereas in 
heifer spaying the whole hand is inserted. With the two fingers 
inside the abdominal cavitv a search is made for the uppermost 




* 



A A 



Fig. 162— incision (Belly Method). 



fallopian tube or ovary. One or the other of these is usually 
found with little difficulty by wiping downwards and backwards 
towards pubic brim. When located the ovary is brought up into 
the incision and its attachments severed with the emasculator. 



Animal Castration 



183 



The opposite ovary is located and removed in like manner. (See 
Fig. 161.) The skin incision is closed by two interrupted sutures. 

Operative Technique (Belly Method) — With calf suspended 
in hanging position the hair is clipped from site of incision and 
the parts thoroughly washed and disinfected the same as for spay- 
ing by the flank method. With knife in right hand begin the 
incision two inches below the brim of the pubis in the median line 
and extend it downwards for three inches, penetrating all the 
coats of the abdominal wall. (See Fig. 162.) With index and 
second finger inside the abdomen the ovaries are readily located 
and brought into the incision and their attachments severed with 
the emasculator. (See Fig. 163.) The incision is now closed by 
three or four " through and through" sutures. (See Fig. 164.) 

After Care and Treatment— Same as heifers. (See page 179.) 




Fig. 16o— Removing Ovary (Belly Method). C, Incision; D, Ovary; E, Emasculator. 



184 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 164 — Incision Closed by Interrupted Sutures. 



Sequelae of Cattle Spaying — -Hemorrhage, septic peritonitis, 
abscess, general sepsis, hernia and bloating are the most usual 
sequelae. 



Animal Castration 185 



CHAPTER III. 

SPAYING SOWS. 

Objects and Indications — The one and only beneficial result 
of this operation is to facilitate growth, fattening, marketing and 
slaughter without the handicap of early pregnancy. The economic 
importance of sow spaying is well recognized by many swine 
owners. Formerly the operation was more generally practiced 
than it is at the present day. This may be accounted for by the 
fact that what would have formerly been termed revolutionary 
methods are now in vogue in the great swine-raising sections of 
the Middle West and Central States in raising and marketing 
hogs. This practice enables swine owners to grow, fatten and 
market hogs as early as six to ten months of age, and is becom- 
ing more universal each and every year. Of course under such 
circumstances spaying would not be an essential operation. How- 
ever, in the South and Southwest the older methods of swine- 
raising still prevail to a limited degree, hence it is in this section 
that the operation of spaying is still practiced to a limited extent. 

Age — The operation is best performed at four months. How- 
ever, it is permissible to operate any time from sixty days to ma- 
turity, or even old age. 

Season — Sows should not be spayed during kfc tiy time" or in 
extremely cold weather. Best to operate in the fall, early winter 
and spring. 

Preparation — One of the most important essentials to success 
in spaying sows is to have the alimentary tract absolutely empty 
before undertaking to operate. This can best be done by with- 
holding the feed for from twenty-four to thirty hours previously. 
During this time there is no special objection to allowing the ani- 
mal free access to water. The danger of septic infection can be 
greatly minimized by providing (dean quarters before and after 
operation. Another essential is to not allow the boar access to 
the sows previous to spaying. Tt is not best to operate dining the 



186 



Animal Castration 



period of "heat." Pregnancy is a counter-indication to success- 
ful spaying. 

Restraint — Proper restraint technique is as much an essential 
in spaying operation of sows as it is in most any operation in 
animal surgery. This operation calls for the simple and easily 
applied rather than the complicated and intrinsic methods often- 
times employed in other operations. The method of restraint used 
must of course depend upon whether the flank or the belly opera- 




Fig. 165— Restraint for Spaying (Belly Method.) 

tion is to be performed. If the abdominal cavity is to be invaded 
from below (belly) the most simple and satisfactory method of 
restraint would consist in looping a strong cord (window sash 
cord) or small size rope above the hocks, by which the animal can 
be readily suspended to a post or wall in the hanging posture 
(Fig. 165.) 

Tf the flank incision is to be resorted to then it is necessary 



Animal Castration 



187 



for the animal to be confined in the recumbent posture at an angle 
of about thirty degrees on either right or left side, depending 
upon which flank is to be invaded. One of the best and most satis- 
factory methods the author has ever employed is as follows : Pr< >- 
cure a piece of three-eighths inch soft rope about six feet long. 
Tie the free ends together, forming a loop as shown in Fig. 166. 




Fig. 166— Restraint for Spaying (Flank Method.) First Step. A, Board with End 

Elevated; B, Rope Suspending the Board; C, Rope Loop; 

D, Right Hand; E, Left Hand. 

Next secure a 2 x 14 inch plank about 12 feet long: place one end 
on the floor or ground as the case may be, cither spike the other 
end fast to the wall or suspend it by means of a rope from above. 
Now make your rope loop fast to the upper end of the plank with 
a screw eye or a spike (A), or it may be fastened by boring a hole 
through the plank large enough to allow the rope to be drawn up 
through and held secure' by a Large knot in its ends. This should 



188 



Animal Castration 



be so arranged that when the hog is fastened to the plank it is 
to be about waist high to the operator as shown in the following 
illustrations. The plank should assume a position of about thirty 
degrees. The operator standing facing the plank with his right 
hand towards the lower end passes right hand (D) through the 
loop (C) and instructs assistant to grasp right legs of the hog 
and bring the hog to him placing it on the board. As the assistant 
approaches with the hog pass your left hand under the right hand 
and rope, grasping left hind leg (E), while your right hand grasps 
the right hind leg (Fig. 167). Now guide the left leg to your 
right hand, which grasps it. The left hand now contains both 
hind feet, while the right hand grasps the loop from over left 
wrist and carries it back, dropping it above ankles. As you drop 
the rope back of the ankle you are to say "pull," meaning that 
your assistant is to pull the hog downward on the plank, making 




Fig. 167— Restraint for Spaying Operation (Flank Method.) Second Step. F, Board; 
G, Rope; H, Rope Loop; I, Left Hand; J, Right Hand. 



Animal Castration 



189 




Fig. 16S — Restraint for Spaying Operation (Plank Method.) Third Step. K, Board; 
L, Rope; M, Rope Loop; N, Hind Legs Fixed; O, Flank Incision. 

the rope taut as shown in Fig. 168. With a little practice a sow- 
can be secured by this method in less than five seconds. 

Instruments — 1. Curved scissors (Fig. 35) for dipping hair 
from site of incision. 

2. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 

3. Swine and sheep emasculator (Fig. 80). 

4. Hagedorn's needle (half circle) No. 3 (Fig. 84). 

5. Bichter's needle holder (Fig. 34). 

6. Braided silk No. 12 or linen for sutures. 

Anatomy — It is well to remember that the fallopian tubes and 
horns of uterus in sows are extremely long in comparison to 
size of animal and that their course is decidedly tortuous in the 
pelvis and abdominal cavities. The importance of the above can 
be more thoroughly comprehended and appreciated if you will 
carefully observe these parts and their relation, which is plainly 



190 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 169 — Internal Genital Organs of Sow. A, Rectum; B, Vagina; C, Bladder; 

D, Uterus; E, Left Fallopian Tube or "Horn"; F, Right Fallopian 

Tube or "Horn"; G, Ovary; H, Intestines; I, Kidney. 



illustrated, in a diagramatic way, in Fig. 169. The body of the 
uterus is unusually short when the length of its tubes are taken into 
consideration. The cervix (neck of womb) does not project into 
the vagina in such manner as is observed in most other domestic 
and wild animals. On the other hand, the vagina and uterus of 
the sow are continued into each other without any circumscribed 
limit intervening between them. The "horns" float loosely in the 
abdominal cavity and are found closely associated with the con- 
volutions of the intestines. The broad ligaments are mesenteric 
in conformation and character and are extremelv thin and lax. 




Fig. 170 — External and Internal Generative Organs of the Sow. A, Ovaries; B, Fal- 
lopian Tubes; C, Uterus; D, Vagina; E, Vulva. 



Animal Castration 191 

The ovaries are decidedly tabulated and closely resemble grape 
cluster, being suspended to the right and left of the vertebral 
column near the median line of the body. Fig. 170 illustrates the 
external as well as internal generative organs of the sow. 

The abdominal wall in the Hank region is quite thick and con- 
tains much fat. This fat is encountered between the skin and the 
external oblique abdominal muscle. More fat is encountered in 
mature sows than in younger hogs. The skin is dense and tough 
in consistency, while the external and internal oblique muscles and 
peritoneum are comparatively thin and delicate in conformation. 
The above description applies equally as well to the belly wall at 
site of spaying operation except that the wall in the latter region 
is somewhat thinner. 

Methods of Operating — There are two standard methods, viz.: 
flank, and median line or "belly." Each have their advantages 
and disadvantages; however, taking everything into consideration 
the author greatly prefers the flank method. 

Operative Technique (Flank Method) — The animal should he 
properly secured as illustrated in Figs. 166, 167 and 168, and 
placed on the right side. Remove hair from flank by clipping 
with scissors. Wash hands of operator and left flank of animal 
with Lysol or Cresol Compound U. S. P. in the strength of one 
tablespoonful to each quart of water. With hook knife make 
oblique incision one inch to an inch and a half long, beginning 
high in flank, one to two inches posterior (behind) the last rib. 
This incision should run downward and backward at an angle of 
45 degrees (see O, Fig. 168). The incision should penetrate skin, 
subcutaneous connective tissue, fat and external and internal 
oblique abdominal muscles. By this we mean all tissues down to 
the peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity). The peritoneum 
is now carefully punctured with the point of knife, after which 
stretch or enlarge the incision sufficiently to admit index finger 
of the left hand. With this finger inside of abdomen the left ( up- 
per) ovary is located by passing the finger backward near fungus 
of bladder and upward toward vertebra] column (backbone). The 
ovary can be readily distinguished from the other inter-abdominal 
viscera by its peculiar feel, as it consists of hard lobules arranged 
in cluster form simulating small grapes. The left ovary and its 



192 



Animal Castration 



accompanying fallopian tubes are drawn through the incision. In 
young sows the left tube is now withdrawn from abdominal cavity 
and followed back to the biflication where the right tube is encoun- 
tered. The right tube is withdrawn from abdominal cavity and 
followed until right ovary is located, after which draw the ovary 
out of abdomen through incision and place both ovaries (P) in 
emasculator and sever their attachments by closing handles of in- 
strument. The tubes (Q) are now washed and replaced in the 
abdominal cavity (see Fig. 171), after which the incision is 
closed by two interrupted sutures. These sutures should be made 
with a No. 3 half circle Hagedorn needle and No. 12 braided silk. 
They should extend through all layers of the abdominal wall, in- 
cluding skin and peritoneum, or in other words, should be what is 
known as the "through and through" sutures. (See Fig. 172.) 
Sponge off wound with antiseptic solution and release the animal. 




Fig. 171 — P, Ovaries; Q, Fallopian Tubes (Horns); R, Emasculator. 

In sows which have given birth to one or more litters of pigs 
the fallopian tubes are oftentimes so large that the left one must 
be replaced in the abdomen before the right one can be withdrawn. 
Tn such vent, of course, only one ovary can be removed at a time. 
However, both ovaries can always be removed through the same 
flank incision. 



Animal Castration 



193 




Fig. 



l72 -Abdominal Incision, Closed with Tw 



o Interrupted Sutures. S, T, Sutures. 




Fig. 173— Belly Incision. 



13 



194 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 174 — F, Ovaries; G, Fallopian Tubes or "Horns"; H, Bmasculator. 

Operative Technique (Median Line or "Belly" Method) — 
Sterilize instruments and wash hands same as for flank operation. 
With the animal properly secured in the hanging posture (Fig. 
173) the hair is removed from site of incision and parts cleansed 
same as for flank method. With hook knife begin incision two to 
three inches below brim of pubis and one-half inch to either right 
or left of the median line. This incision should be extended down- 
wards about one and one-half to two inches, and should include 
all la} r ers of the abdominal wall, down to the peritoneum. 



The peritoneum is now punctured with the point of the hook 
knife, after which enlarge incision to admit index finger of left 



Animal Castration 



195 



hand. With this finger the ovaries and tubes are readily located 
near the median line of the body. They are drawn through the 
incision (see Fig. 174) and removed with emasculator same as 
by flank method. 

The tubes are now sponged off with antiseptic solution, after 
which they are replaced in the abdominal cavity and the wound 
closed by two or three interrupted " through and through" sutures 
(see J, Fig. 175), using the same needle and the same size silk as 
flank method. The animal is now released. 




Fig. 175— Wound Closed (Belly Method). 



196 



Animal Castration 




n, ne-c^c o^w-^~*^»^" 0I 17 ° P ° UndS 



Animal Castration 197 

CHAPTER IV. 

EWE SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — Sheep spaying is rarely ever prac- 
ticed in this country on account of the ewe being more valuable 
as a breeding animal than she is for mutton purposes. Spayed 
ewes will mature earlier, grow larger and take on fat faster and 
more of it than will entire ewes. On this account they are some- 
times spayed for fat stock show and exhibition purposes. 

Age — 2Y2 to 3 months is the desirable age. 

Season — Late winter and early spring. 

Preparation— Empty alimentary tract by withholding feed for 
24 to 30 hours previous to operating. 

Position — Hanging. 

Restraint — The ewe is exceedingly docile and submits kindly to 
operation. With a small rope or large cord looped above each hock 
the animal is suspended from a hook or beam above. The field 
of operation should be on a level with breast of operator. 

Instruments — 1. Curved scissors (Fig. 35) for clipping wool 
from site of incision. 2. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 3. Swine 
and sheep emasculator (Fig. 80). 4. Hagedorn's needle y 2 cir- 
cle , No. 3 (Fig. 84). 5. Richter's needle holder (Fig. 34). 6. 
Braided silk No. 12 for suturing. 





Pig. 177 — External and Internal Genital Organs of the Ewe. G, Vulva; H, Vagina; 
I, Uterus; J-J, Horns; K-K, Ovaries; L-L, Broad Ligament. 



198 



Animal Castration 



Anatomy — The conformation and anatomical relation of the 
internal generative organs of the ewe are almost a facsimile du- 
plicate of those of the cow except on a much smaller scale. The 
abdominal wall at site of incision is very thin and exceedingly 
delicate. 






Fig. 178 — Abdominal Incision. 



Fig. 179 — Removing Ovary. 
M, Incision; N, Ovary; O, Emasculator. 



Animal Castration 



199 



Warning— On account of the thin and delicate structure of 
the abdominal wall exceeding care must be exercised in suturing 

the incision. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Chin/sin,/ Hands of Operator 
— Same as for calf spaying. 

Operative Technique— With ewe in the hanging posture the 




Fig. 180— Wound Sutured. E, Wound; F, Sutures. 



200 Animal Castration 

wool is clipped from field of operation, after which it is cleansed 
by washing* with soap and water and disinfected by painting with 
tincture iodine. 1. With knife in right hand begin the incision 
in the median line 3 inches below the brim of pubis, and extend it 
downwards for a distance of 2% or 3 inches. (See Fig. 178.) 
This incision should penetrate all layers of the abdominal wall. 

2. With index and second finger inside the abdomen the horns and 
ovaries are readily located, after which withdraw each ovary in 
turn and sever them from their attachments. (See Fig. 179.) 

3. The abdominal incision is now closed by three interrupted 
"through and through" sutures, care being taken to see that each 
coat of the abdominal wall is in direct apposition. 

After Care and Treatment — The spayed animals should be 
turned to pasture if weather conditions are favorable, otherwise 
sanitary well bedded quarters are to be provided. If sutures do 
not slough out they should be removed about the eighth day. 



Animal Castration 201 



CHAPTER V. 

BITCH SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — Bitches are submitted to spaying 
operation for the purpose of preventing "heat" and pregnancy, 
both of which are necessarily preceded by obscene and vulgar 
behavior which is particularly objectionable to home folks as well 
as neighbors. A bitch in "heat" is an ideal illustration of a 
private as well as public nuisance. She is undesirable at home 
and unwelcome abroad. To obviate this, spaying is the only re- 
course. The spayed bitch is a more desirable animal in many 
respects than the unspayed one. She remains contented at home. 
She is always present and ready when called for. She is more 
kind, docile and reliable than the entire bitch. 

Age — In order to secure the best results it is advisable to spay 
the bitch puppy before she comes in heat the first time. The pref- 
erable age is 3 to 6 months. Aged bitches which have given birth 
to several litters of pups previous to spaying sometimes ' ' come in 
heat" after they are spayed. Whether or not such phenomenon 
is an acquired habit the author is unable to say. 

Season — Winter, spring and fall. 

Preparation — An empty alimentary tract is one of the most 
important adjuncts to spaying. Food should be withheld for 36 
hours previous to time of operating, and if there is the slightest 
evidence of constipation a dose of castor oil should be administered 
12 hours before spaying. 

Methods of Operating — There are two well defined methods of 
operating, viz. : Flank method and belly method. They both have 
their ardent advocates. Some good surgeons prefer and advocate 
the belly method while some better surgeons strongly indorse the 
flank method. The author greatly prefers the belly method. 

Anaesthesia — With qualified and trained assistants and hos- 
pital facilities at hand the operation should be performed under 



202 



Animal Castration 



general anaesthesia. However, when these safeguards and con- 
veniences are not available it is permissible to operate without 
anaesthesia. 

Instruments — 1. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 2. Canine and 
feline emasculator (Figs. 102 and 103). 3. Wound retractor (Fig. 
180 a) . While the wound retractor is not absolutely essential, nev- 
ertheless its application greatly facilitates locating the uterus and 
fallopian tubes by enabling the operator to view them inside the 




Fig. 180 a — Wound Retractor. (Actual Size.) 




Fig. 180 b— Surgeon's Full Curved Needle No. 5. (Actual Size.) 

abdomen. If these parts are seen they can be readily grasped with 
haemostatic forceps and withdraw, without introducing the finger 
haemostatic forceps and withdrawn, without introducing the finger 
( Fig. 180 &), carrying 20 inches No. 10 braided silk for sutures. 
5. Uterine sound (Fig. 180 c). 6. Haemostatic forceps. 7. Rich- 
ter's needle holder (Fig. 34). 




Fig. 180 c— Uterine Sound. 



Animal Castration 



l'o:; 




Fig. 181— External and Internal Genital Organs of Bitch. A, Vulva- B Vagina 1 
C, Uterus; D-D, Horns; E-E, Ovaries. 

Anatomy— There is little or no doubt— on accounl of anatom- 
ical conformation— that the bitch is the most tedious and difficult 
of all domestic animals to spay unless it be one exception— the cat. 
In order to make satisfactory progres to any degree whatsoever in 
bitch spaying the operator must possess sonic familiarity with the 
anatomy of the organs and parts involved. 




Fig. 182— A, Broad Ligament; B, Rent in Ligament; C, Ovary; D, Fallopian Tubes- 
E-E, Ligatures; F, Horn; G, Artery. 



204 



Animal Castration 



Vulva — The vulva has thick labia which form a pointed infe- 
rior commissure. 

Vagina — The vagina is tubular in form and relatively long. 
Its walls are thick, consisting principally of circular muscular 
fibers. It is closely related with the rectum above and the bladder 
below. 

Uterus — The body of the uterus is exceedingly short, rarely 
exceeding one inch in le ngth. Its two cornua (horns) are long, 
and their diameter small. The}^ vary in length in different size 
sluts from 4 to 8 inches. They lie loosely inside abdominal cavity 
closely associated with the intestinal convolutions. Their biflica- 




Fig. 183 — View of Interior of Abdominal Cavity, Showing Internal Genital Organs and 

Their Relations. A, Urinary Bladder; B, Uterus; C-C, Horns; 

D, Biflications of Horns; E-E, Ovaries; F, Intestines. 



Animal Casteation 



205 



tion is V shaped, and takes place immediately under fundus of 
bladder. The broad ligaments are long, especially in their middle. 
(See Fig. 182.) The fallopian tubes are small in diameter and 1 
to 2y 2 inches long. 

Ovaries — The ovaries are bean shaped and small in size. Their 
surface is smooth. They are enclosed in a peritoneal pouch (sac) 
and are attached immediately posterior to the kidneys. ( Fig. 1 s: 1 i . 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator 
— All instruments, sutures, ligatures, etc., used in connection with 
the operation should be sterilized by boiling for 15 or 20 minutes, 
after which immerse them in Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., 
in the strength of one tablespoonf ul to each quart of water. The 
hands should be thoroughly cleansed with tincture green soap and 




Fk 



184— Bitch on Table. A-B, Hind Hobbles; C-D, Front Hobbles; E, Incision; 

F, Tape Muzzle. 



206 



Animal Castration 



warm water, using scrub brush, after which rinse them in the 
above prescribed antiseptic solution. 

Preparation of Operative Field — Clip or shave hair from site 
of incision. Wash with tincture green soap and warm water, 
using scrub brush. Rinse with antiseptic solution, after which 
paint with tincture iodine. 

Restraint and Position (Belly Method) — Always apply the 
muzzle to begin with. If suitable operating table is available it 
should be utilized. What we mean by suitable table is one in which 
top will elevate to the perpendicular or almost perpendicular posi- 
tion. Tables made with stationary tops have no place in this oper- 
ation. If a table is not used then an inexpensive as well as a 
safe and satisfactory method is that designed, taught and prac- 
ticed by "Farmer" Miles (see Fig. 185), as follows : A tape muz- 
zle (F) is applied. With a strong cord looped above hocks (B-B) 
and thrown over spike or hook (A) in post or wall (C) the animal 




Fig. 185 — "Farmer" Miles Method of Restraint for Spaying Operation. 



Animal Castration 



207 



is suspended sufficiently high for the site of operation to be on a 
level with operator's breast. With another strong cord (D) looped 
above elbows (E-E), the operator's leg (G) is placed through its 
loop for the purpose of making sufficient downward trad ion to 
limit movement of animal. In this position the intestines gravi- 
tate downward against diaphram, which greatly assists in locating 
and removing the ovaries. 

Operative Technique — A site is selected slightly to right or left 
of the median line about 2 to 3 inches below the pubic brim for the 




Fig. 186 — Abdominal Fig. 187 — Removing Ovaries Fig. 188 — Incision Closed with 
Incision. with Emasculator. I, Bit- 3 Interrupted Sutures, 

lication; J-J, Horns; K, 
Ovaries; L, Emasculator. 

beginning of abdominal incision. Tins incision should extend 
downwards for IV2 to 2 inches, and penetrate all coats of the 
abdominal wall, care being taken not to injure bladder with point 
of knife. (See Fig. 186.) If prefered there is no objection to 



208 



Animal Castration 



introducing the wound retractors, in which event if your bitch is 
empty and the light bright — either the body of the uterus or its 
horns can plainly be seen. With either tissue or haemostatic for- 
ceps the horn is picked up and drawn out abdominal incision 
where it is grasped between the index and second finger of the left 
hand. With index finger of right, follow the horn and tube down- 
ward to its attachment, and with a limited amount of traction on 
horn the ovary is torn loose with the finger nail and brought to 
the outside. With free end of tube and ovary in one hand the 
horn is followed up to its biflication. When biflication is reached 
the opposite horn is grasped and opposite ovary located and re- 
moved from abdomen in like manner. Both ovaries are now re- 
moved from their fallopian tubes with emasculator. The stump of 
tubes and horns are replaced in abdominal cavity. Recleanse the 
wound by sponging with antiseptic solution, after which close with 
two or three interrupted "through and through" sutures. The 
animal is now ready to release. If inexperienced it is well for the 
operator to insert uterine sound or probe into the vagina, as by this 
means the finding of uterus and horns is oftentimes greatly facili- 
tated. With the experienced operator the sound is superfluous. 

Restraint ( Flank Method) — The usual means of restraint when 
spaying by this method is the application of a tape muzzle and 
fixing the right hind and both fore feet together with a strong 




Fig. 189— Bitch Spaying (Flank Method.) A, Abdominal Incision; B, Knife; C, Left Leg; 
D, Three Legs Fixed Together; E, Muzzle. 



Animal Castration 



209 



cord. With one assistant at the head and another with left hind 
leg, the animal is sufficiently secure for the operation. 

Operative Technique — The site of incision is in triangle of 
flank. This triangle is bound superiorly by transverse processes 
of lumbar vertebrae. Anteriorly by posterior border of last rib 
and posteriorly by external angle of illium. The direction of in- 
cision should be slightly diagonal, extending downward and back- 
ward. About iy 2 inches is the usual length. (See Fig. 189.) This 
incision should penetrate all coats of the abdominal wall (skin, 
subcutaneous connective tissue, fascia, external and internal 
oblique abdominal muscles and peritoneum). With the index 
finger introduced into the abdominal cavity the uppermost horn 
is located and drawn out through incision. This horn and tube 
are followed up — with one finger— until its ovary is located. The 
ovary is torn loose from its attachment and brought outside the 
abdominal cavity. (See Fig. 190.) By making limited traction 
on this horn with one hand, and following it to the biflication with 
index finger on other hand, the opposite horn is located and drawn 




Fig. 190 — Bitch Spaying (Flank Method.) 

outside the cavity. With finger inside the cavity the ovary is torn 
from its attachment and brought outside. The tubes may now be 
severed with emasculator or they may be ligated with chromacized 
catgut (10-day). Thoroughly cleanse by sponging with antiseptic 

14 



210 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 191 — Wound Closed by Interrupted Sutures. (P) Bitches after spaying should 
have the wounds protected as a safeguard against infection as well as tearing out 
sutures with the teeth. Two methods of wound protection are illustrated in Figs. 192 
and 193. 




Fig. 192 — Protection of Wound After Spaying. 



Animal Castration 



211 




Fig. 193 — Protection of Wound After Spaying. 

solution everything that is outside the abdominal cavity, after 
which replace the stumps of tubes and suture up with two or three 
"through and through" sutures. (See Fig. 191.) Special care 
should be exercised to see that the peritoneum is included in 
sutures. Bitches after spaying should have the wounds protected 
as a safeguard against infection as well as tearing out sutures with 
the teeth. Two methods of wound protection are illustrated in 
Figs. 192 and 193. 

After Care and Treatment — The bitch should be confined in 
small sanitary quarters for 6 or 7 days. Exercise during this pe- 
riod is harmful and oftentimes dangerous. Remove sutures in 
from 3 to 5 days, depending upon condition of wound. 

Sequelae — The chief sequelae to be faced are septic peritonitis, 
shock, internal hemorrhage, hernia and anorexia. 

1. Septic Peritonitis. The cause of septic peritonitis may be 
attributed to uncleanliness on part of surgeon while operating, un- 
clean hands, contaminated instruments, failure to properly cleanse 
and disinfect site of operation, etc. While the bitch possesses con- 
siderable more immunity to septic infection than some other ani- 
mals, nevertheless it behoves the operator to be on the constant 



212 Animal Castration 

lookout for sepsis, and to take all reasonable precautions to pre- 
vent it. 

2. Sliock. When the operation is unnecessarily prolonged and 
considerable blood lost, shock is by no means an unusual sequelae. 
Shock is not so liable to occur when general anaesthesia is em- 
ployed. If shock is of such a desperate character as to require 
treatment proceed as follows: Protect the body from cold by 
placing patient in a warm room and blanketing. Strychnine and 
nitroglycerine, or adrenalin chloride, may be administered hypo- 
derinically. Alcohol and ammonia internally. If reaction does 
not begin quite promptly resort should be had to normal saline 
solution subcutaneously or intra-veinously. 

3. Internal Hemorrhage. If for any reason the emasculator 
fails to properly crush the artery internal hemorrhage to a lesser 
or greater degree may be reasonably expected. If at the time of 
spaying the bitch is in "heat," or in event of pregnancy, the 
horns and tubes are greatly congested and enlarged. In such 
cases the emasculator should not be depended upon to control the 
hemorrhage. The ligature should be resorted to. Nature will do 
much to prevent internal hemorrhage. However, death from such 
a cause sometimes occurs. Unless the hemorrhage is very profuse 
reopening the abdomen for purpose of controlling it is of doubt- 
ful value. Ordinarily, the best plan is to administer stimulants, 
consisting of strychnine, nitro-glycerine, adrenalin, chloride and 
saline solution, and leave the abdominal cavity alone. 

4. Hernia. Careless or improper suturing and septic infection 
are the causes of hernia following spaying operation. By exer- 
cising extreme care in suturing the wound and fortifying against 
sepsis by taking the necessary auseptic and antiseptic precautions 
the occurrence of hernia will be extremely rare. 

5. Anorexia. In a few instances it is extremely difficult — even 
in the absence of any perceptible grave systemic disturbance — to 
induce the recently spayed bitch to eat and drink. They sometimes 
actually die from starvation. Forced feeding with malted milk or 
coco-emulsion cod liver oil is indicated. Drugs are of little avail. 



Animal Castration 213 



CHAPTER VI. 

CAT SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — Cats are submitted to spaying opera- 
tion for the purpose of preventing "heat" and pregnancy, princi- 
pally the latter. After spaying they remain at home better and are 
more desirable pets than before. 

Age — The best results are attained if the cat is spayed before 
she "comes in heat" the first time (prior to pubity). On account 
of small size of cat — especially if an attempt is made at an early 
age — the operation is extremely tedious. Best to operate at 6 to 
8 months old. 

Season — Winter, spring and fall. 

Preparation — Withhold food for 24 to 30 hours previous to 
operating in order that the alimentary tract may be empty. 

Methods — Flank method and belly method. The author pre- 
fers the belly method. 

Anaesthesia — On account of a natural as well as an acquired 
tendency to bite and scratch ferociously whenever submitted to 
operation of almost any character, general anaesthesia should be 
employed whenever possible. 

Instruments — 1. Miles' hook knife (Fig. 25). 2. Canine and 
feline emasculator (Figs. 102, 103). 3. Wound retractor (Fig. 
180 a). 4. Surgeon's full curved needle No. 5 (Fig. 180 &), carry- 
ing 18 inches sterilized braided silk No. 10. 5. Long, slender probe. 
6. Haemostatic forceps. 

Anatomy — The cat is the most difficult and tedious of all do- 
mestic animals to spay. The anatomical conformation and small 
size of the parts and organs concerned in the operation largely 
account for its extreme tediousness. As for the author's part he 
would greatly prefer spaying ten heifers to one cat. In fact, he 
would prefer spaying twice ten heifers to spaying one kitten. As 
a general proposition the internal generative organs of the cat 



214 Animal Castration 

are similar in all material respects to those of th .WjM; 
course, those of cat are on a much smaller scale. Then contorm 




Fig. 



194— External and Internal Genitals of Cat. 




• AhHnminai Cavity A, Biflication; B, Rectum; C, Bladder; 
Fig 195 -View of ™™™«£^£&°g?&e*?F, Intestines. 



Animal Castration 



215 



tion and anatomical relation are the same in both animals (See 
Figs. 194 and 195.) 

Sterilization of Intruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator 
— Same as for bitch spaying. See page 205. 

Preparation of Operative Field— Same as for bitch spaying 
See page 206. J h ' 

Restraint (Belly Method)— It is desirable to fix the cat securely 
to operating table (Figs. 196 and 197). In event table is not 
available a wide board may be used. 

Operative Technique— Same as for bitch spaying. 
Restraint (Flank Method) -Right hind and both fore legs are 
fixed together with strong cord. Left hind leg and head are held 

by assistant. ( See Fig. 1 98 ) . 




Fig. 196— Cat Fixed to Table for Spaying Operation. E, Abdominal Incision. 



216 



Animal Castration 




Fig. 197 — Incision Closed with Two Interrupted Sutures. 




Fig 198— Cat Tied and in Proper Position for Flank Spaying. A, Incision; B, Legs 

Fixed Together. 



Animal Castration 



217 




Fig. 199 — Cat Spaying (Flank Method). E, Emasculator; D, Ovary; F, Abdominal 

Incision. 




Fig. 200 — Wound Closed with Two Interrupted Sutures. F, Sutures. 

Operative Technique — Same as for bitch spaying. (See pages 
207-209.) 

After Care and Treatment — Same as for bitch spaying. Sec 
page 211. 

Sequelae— Same as for bitch spaying. (See page 211.) 



218 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER VII. 

POULAEDIZING. 

The operation of poulardizing simply means unsexing the 
female chicken. In other words, spaying the pullet. 

Objects and Indications — The primary object in making pou- 
larcles of pullets is for the purpose of growing them to quick ma- 
turity without the handicap of egg production. It is a positively 
known fact that poulardes mature and develop more rapidly than 
the entire pullet or hen. The texture, flavor and nutritive proper- 
ties of their meat is greatly improved. Poulardes meat bears the 
same relation to that of the hen as the meat of a spayed heifer 
bears to that of the old cow. The operation has been practiced on 
a large scale for many years in Prance and Germany, and to a 
limited extent in America. The results would justify its more 
universal adoption. The poularde never cackles, and like the 
capon becomes an outcast. 

Age — Two to three months. 

Season — Late spring, summer and early fall. 

Preparation — Withhold all food for at least 30 hours before 
operating. It is impossible to do a satisfactory operation on a 
pullet with full alimentary tract. To begin with a full abdominal 
cavity prevents locating and examining the egg cluster, to say 
nothing of its interference with the operation itself. 

Restraint — On a box or barrel acting as an operating table the 
pullet is confined for operation same as for that of caponizing. 
Two pieces of strong cord are procured, upon each end a loop is 
made. To one end a weight is attached (see A-A, Fig. 201), after 
which the free end of one cord is looped above feet and the other 
cord is looped around wings. The pullet is now stretched full 
length — left side uppermost — on table. This is a quick and inex- 
pensive method of restraint and at the same time a satisfactory 
one for the operation. 



Animal Castration 



219 




Fig. 201 — Restraint for Poulardeing. A-A, Weights at End of Cords; B, Leg of Fowl in 
Loop; C, Wings in Loop; D, Incision. 

Instruments — 1. Caponizing knife (Fig. 116). 2. Spreaders 
(Figs. 117, 118, 119). 3. Haemostatic or tissue forceps (small 
size). 4. Curved scissors (Fig. 35). 

Breeds — It is not profitable to attempt to make poulardes from 
the small breeds of chickens. Better select those of the larger 
breeds, viz.: Indian Games, Brahmas, Cochins, Langshans, Ply- 
mouth Rocks, Orpingtons, Wyandottes, etc. All make good pou- 
lardes. 

Anatomy — Some idea of the anatomy of the parts involved and 
their relation is necessary before progress can be made with this 
operation. Fig. 202 shows the egg cluster (E) which corresponds 
to the ovary in animals, and egg passage (F) which corresponds 
to the uterus in animals. This illustration was purposely made 
from a grown hen. One object in doing so was to enable the ama- 
teur operator to know the comparative between the internal geni- 
tals of a hen and those of a pullet of proper age and size for oper- 



220 



Animal Castration 



p 




, t >. 



***«» 



i^*^*O i 







Fig. 202 — Internal Genital Organs of Hen. E, Egg Cluster; F, Egg Passage. 




Fig. 203— Internal Genitals of Hen. A, Egg Cluster; B-B, Egg Passage; C, Cloaca; 
D, Frimbriated Extremity of Fallopian Tube. 



Animal Castration 



221 



ation. Pig. 203 shows the organs removed from the abdominal 
cavity of hen. They consist of (A) egg cluster, (B-B) egg pas- 
sage, (C) cloaca, (D) fimbriated extremity of fallopian tubes. 
The egg cluster lies in close proximity to the vertebral column, 
slightly posterior to the lungs. From it the fallopian tubes and 
egg passage proceed backward — in close relation to the vertebral 
column, aorta and vena cava — to its outlet — cloaca. In the pullet 
the egg cluster and egg passage are small. (See Pig. 204.) 




Fig. 204 — Intestines Removed in Order to Show Position of Egg Cluster and Egg Passage. 

G, Egg Cluster; H, Egg Passage. 

In a pullet of proper age for operation the egg passage is no 
larger than an average size broom straw. The egg cluster in such 
a pullet is small and flat, and shows no evidence of egg formation. 
Beginners are urgently advised to kill and carefully examine these 
parts in a full grown hen, also a three-months-old pullet before 
operating. 

Warning — In removing section from egg passage caution 
should be exercised not to sever either the aorta or vena cava. 
Both are large and important blood vessels, and should either of 
them be severed death from internal hemorrhage is almost instan- 
taneous. It is important to have extra good light in order that the 
abdominal cavity be illuminated sufficiently to locate the parts. 
Bright sunshine is the ideal light for this operation. Out-of-doors 
is the place, and from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. is the time. 



222 



Animal Castration 



Operative Technique — With left side uppermost the feathers 
are plucked from site of incision — last intercostal space. The skin 
is chilled by allowing a glass of cold water to slowly trickle over 
it. This chilling process has a tendency to reduce capillary hem- 
orrhage from the skin. With knife begin high between the last 
two ribs and make an incision 1 to IV2 inches long, severing 
through skin and both layers of intercostal muscle down to the 
transparent peritoneum. Since the intercostal artery follows 
closely the posterior (back) border of the rib this incision should 
be made as close to the anterior border (front) of the last rib as 
possible. The spreaders are now inserted. This opens the wound, 




Fig. 205 — Making a Poularde. E, Abdominal Incision; G, Spreaders; F, Thum Forceps. 

and through the transparent membrane (peritoneum) covering 
the intestines the egg cluster is examined. If there is evidence of 
advanced egg formation it is not profitable to make a poularde. 
More profitable to release her for egg production, in which event 
the abdominal cavity is not opened. The spreaders are simply 
removed and the fowl released. On the other hand, if, upon exam- 
ination of the egg cluster — through the transparent peritoneum — 
there is no evidence of egg formation the peritoneum is knicked 
sufficient to open the abdominal cavity. Beginning close to the 



Animal Castration 



223 



egg cluster a one-inch section of the egg passage is removed with 
forceps and scissors. This stops egg formation. By reference to 
Fig. 206 an idea may be had of the exact location of the egg pas- 
sage and the part of it to be removed in operating. The spreader 
is now removed. This allows the ribs to come together, which 
automatically closes the incision. 





r 




Fig. 206 — Removing Section from Egg Passage. I-J, Forceps; K, Egg Passage; L, The 
Section of Egg Passage Between Forceps is to be Removed ; M, Egg Cluster. 

After Care and Treatment — Upon being released from the 
operating table poulardes are usually put in a closed yard where 
they can find shelter, food and water, and can be kept quiet. No 
roosts are provided, as the less flying and jumping they do the 
sooner will the wound heal. The poulardes seem to be very lilth' 
inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed mixed 
with sweet skim milk can be given immediately. Sonic feeders 
give this in unlimited quantity, while others feed more sparingly 
for a time. 

For a week or ten days the newly made poulardes should be 
carefully observed to see whether they become "wind-puffed." 
This is a condition caused by air gathering under and puffing out 
the skin near the wound. When observed it can be readily relieved 
by pricking the skin with a needle or knife and pressing out the air. 



224 Animal Castration 



CHAPTER VIII. 

DEODORIZING THE SKUNK. 

While removing the scent from a skunk has not the remotest 
relation — either directly or indirectly — with animal castration, 
nevertheless, on account of its novelty and the dearth of reliable 
literature with reference to the subject the author considers it of 
sufficient interest and importance for brief mention in the conclud- 
ing pages of this volume. 

Objects and Indications — It should be remembered that the 
skunk has no effective means of protection or defense aside from 
the scent fluid which it possesses and uses without stint when it 
becomes necessary. Ordinarily, the fluid discharged by the skunk 
is amply sufficient to ward off most any character of attack and 
protect the animal from danger. The scent fluid is only discharged 
when the animal is alarmed or frightened, and contrary to the 
prevailing popular opinion, is not urine, and has no connection 
with the urinary apparatus. Skunks are deodorized for the pur- 
pose of converting them into desirable household pets. Such ani- 
mals never scratch and rarely ever bite. They are absolutely 
harmless. 

Age — They should be operated upon at an early age (15 to 30 
days old), as the mortality rate following operation in the mature 
skunk is very high. 

Season — Whenever you can succeed in catching them. This is 
one animal at least you must catch before you can operate. 

Preparation — If possible the young animals (kittens) should 
be kept and fondled for several days before they are submitted 
to operation. They should become accustomed to being handled. 
By thus preparing them they may be handled through the prepara- 
tory stages of the operation without voiding the scent fluid. 

Restraint — The operation must be done under a glass in order 
to protect operator and assistants. A large pane of window glass 



Animal Castration 225 

should be supported at each end and raised about 10 inches from 
the floor. Two assistants are necessary. Rubber gloves should be 
worn by the operator and both assistants. The animal is carefully 
placed under the glass, after which one assistant should grasp the 
head and fore feet and the other assistant grasp hind feet, and hold 
the posterior parts in such position as to cause the discha rged scent 
fluid to be deposited against under side of glass. Most of the fluid 
will at this time be discharged quite promptly. Very little will be 
kept in reserve. In fact, the operation could be proceeded with 
to completion without the glass. 

Instruments — 1. Scalpel. 2. "Rat tooth" haemostatic forceps. 
3. Curved scissors (Fig. 35). 

Anatomy — The anis is a large irregular elliptical depression 
surrounded by loose flabby skin which bulges over site of anal 
(scent) glands. These glands are two in number located on each 
side (laterally) of the anis. There is about one-half inch space 
between the anis and center of the anal glands. 




Fig. 207— Diagramatic Illustration Showing Scent Secreting and Expelling Apparatus. 

A, Anis; B-B, Jet or Nipple-like Openings of Anal Ducts; C-C, Ducts; 

D-D, Anal Glands; E-E, Sacs or Reservoirs. 

The scent secreting apparatus is large, and consists of numer- 
ous small glands— closely associated — surrounding a sac or reser- 
voir for storing up the fluid. They are covered by skin, subcuta- 
neous connective tissue, and two thin layers of muscular fiber, viz. : 
Iscio cavernous and bulbo-cavernous muscles. The glandular 
organ is surrounded by a well defined envelope. Each gland is 
supplied with an excretory duct. These ducts project through the 
lateral walls of rectum immediately anterior to airis. Their open- 
ings are nipple or jet-like for the purpose of governing direction 
of the stream. Whenever the skunk considers itself in danger its 
behavior is as follows : 1 . Turns posterior parts toward the object 
of attack. 2. Elevates tail. 3. Inverts rectum which exposes 



15 



226 



Animal Castration 



nipple-like openings of the ducts. 4. By voluntary muscular con- 
traction the sac or scent reservoir is compressed and the scent fluid 
expelled. This fluid may be thrown for a distance of 12 to 15 feet, 
and the direction of the stream is under thorough control of the 
skunk. Of course, the amount of fluid is quite limited, but it is 
usually sufficient to suffice. The character of the fluid is dirty 
brown and feted, and is slightly phosphorescent at night. 




Fig. 208— View of Posterior Aspect of Skunk. A, Anis; B-B, Anal Glands. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands 
— The instruments should be sterilized by boiling 15 to 20 minutes, 
after which immerse them in Lysol or Cresol Compound, U. S. P., 
in the strength of one tablespoonf ul to each quart of water. Wash 
hands with tincture green soap, using scrub brush, after which 
rinse them with the above mentioned antiseptic solution. 

Preparation of Operative Field — Don't forget that the skunk 
is now supposed to be under the glass. Clip hair from around the 
rectum for a distance — in each direction — of at least one inch. 
Wash parts with antiseptic solution and paint skin over site of 
incisions with tincture iodine. 




227 



Fig. 209 — View Showing Incisions Over Site of Anal Glands. A, Rectum; B-B, Incision. 

Warning — In making incisions and dissecting out anal glands 
exercise extreme care in order to avoid injury to either rectal or 
anal walls, or to the genito-urinary passages. 

Operative Technique — Locate the glands — on each side of rec- 
tum — by palpitation. A perpendicular incision one inch long is 
made directly over center of most prominent part of each gland, 
about one-half inch from rectum (see Fig. 209). These incisions 
should penetrate skin and subcutaneous connective tissue only. 
With rat tooth haemostatic forceps or small size vulsellum forceps 
the glandular organ is grasped, and with limited traction applied 
by forceps the parts are isolated by careful dissection, after which 
sever the duct close to rectal wall and the operation is completed. 
The incision should be left open to heal by granulation. 

After Care and Treatment — About all that is necessary is to 
place the animal in warm sanitary quarters. The wounds will heal 
and complete recovery take place by the tenth day. 



INDEX. 



INDEX 

Page 

Abscess 71 

Azoturia 77-78 

Bitch Spaying 201-212 

Objects and. Indications 201 

Age 201 

Season 201 

Preparation 201 

Methods of Operating- 201 

Anaesthesia 201-202 

Instruments 202 

Anatomy 203-2( >5 

Restraint (Belly Method) 206-207 

Operative Technique (Belly Method) ..207-208 

Restraint (Flank Method) ' 208-209 

Operative Technique (Flank Method) . .209-211 

Atf ter Care and Treatment 211 

Sequelae 211-212 

Boar — Castration of the 105-1 10 

Objects and Indications 105 

Age 105 

Season 105 

Preparation 105 

Restraint 105-107 

Instruments 107-108 

Operative Technique 108-110 

After Care and Treatment 110 

Sequelae 110 

Boar— Castration of the Monorchid and Crypt- 
orchid 111-115 

Objects and Indications Ill 

Age HI 

Preparation Ill 

Warning 111-112 

Restraint 112 

Instruments 112 

Operative Technique 113-114 

After Care and Treatment 114-115 



INDEX— Con tinued. 

Page 

Boar— Castration of the Ruptured 115-123 

Objects and Indications 116-117 

Age 117 

Season 117 

Preparation 117 

Restraint 117 

Instruments 117 

Operative Technique 118-123 

After Care and Treatment 123 

Bull ( Iastration 92-101 

Objects and Indications 92 

Age 92 

Season 92 

Preparation 92 

Anatomy 94-95 

After Care and Treatment 99 

Bull— Castration in Recumbent Posture .... 92-99 

Restraint for 92-94 

Operative Technique 96-99 

Bull— Castration in the Standing Posture . .100-101 

Caponizing 143-1 51 

Definition 143 

History 143 

Objects and Indications 143-144 

Selection of Breeds 144 

Age 144 

Season 144 

Restraint 145 

Instruments 145-147 

Anatomy 147 

Preparation 148 

Operative Technique 148-150 

After Care and Treatment 150-151 

Mortality 151 

Calf Spaying .." 179-184 

Objects and Indications 179-180 

Age 180 

Season 180 

Preparation 170 

Restraint 180-181 

Instruments 181 

Operative Technique (Flank Method) .. 181-183 
Operative Technique (Belly Method).. 183 
Sequelae ' 184 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Casting— Injuries From 76 

Castration— Definition of 13 

History of 1 :; 

Amcient Methods of 13 

Modern Methods of 13 

Castration of the Boar 105-110 

Objects and Indications 105 

Age 105 

Season 105 

Preparation 105 

Restraint 105-107 

Instruments 107-108 

Operative Technique 108-110 

After Care and Treatment 110 

Sequelae 110 

Castration of the Cryptorchtd and Monorchid 

Boar 111-115 

Objects and Indications Ill 

Age Ill 

Preparation Ill 

Warning 111-112 

Restraint 112 

Instruments 112 

Operative Technique 113-114 

After Care and Treatment 114-115 

Castration of the Ruptured Boar 115-123 

Objects and Indications 116-117 

Age 117 

Season 117 

Preparation 117 

Restraint 117 

Instruments 117 

Operative Technique 118-123 

After Care and Treatment 123 

Castration of the Bull 92-1 <H 

Objects and Indications 92 

Age 92 

Season 92 

Preparation 92 

Anatomy 94-95 

After Care and Treatment 99 

Castration of the Bull in Recumbent Posture 92-99 

Restraint for 92-91 

Operative Technique 96-99 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Castration of the Bull in Standing Posture . . 100-101 

Castration of the Cryptorchid and Monorchid 

Bull 101-104 

Objects and Indications 92 

Age 101 

Preparation 101 

Restraint 101 

Instruments 101 

Operative Technique 102-104 

After Care and Treatment 104 

Castration of the Cat 141-142 

Objects and Indications 141 

Age 141 

Season 141 

Preparation 141 

Restraint 141-142 

Instruments 131 

Anatomy 142 

Operative Technique 133-134 

After Care and Treatment 142 

Castration of the Colt 36-42 

Objects and Indications 14 

Age 36 

Season 36 

Preparation 14 

Anatomy 19-22 

Complications in 47-73 

Restraint for 36-39 

Instruments for 39 

Warning 23-24 

Operative Technique 40-42 

After Care and Treatment 28 

Sequelae 74-91 

Prognosis 28 

Castration of t he Dog 131-135 

Objects and Indications 131 

Age 131 

Season 131 

Preparation 131 

Restraint 131 

Instruments 131 

Anatomy 133 

Operative Technique 33-134 

After Care and Treatment 134-135 



INDEX-Continued. 

Page 

Castration of the Cryptorchid axd Monorchid 

Dog 135-140 

Objects and Indications 135-136 

A ge 136 

Season i;> ( ; 

Preparation V,',(> 

Restraint j 37 

Instruments 137 

Anatomy ..'.'.'.'' .137-138 

Operative Technique 138-139 

After Care and Treatment 140 

Castration of thf Hermaphrodite 71-73 

Definition 7 1 

Objects and Indications 71 

A ge II 

Season 72 

Preparation 14 

Restraint 54-57 

Anatomy 70 

Instruments 57-59 

Operative Technique 73 

After Care and Treatment 69-70 

Castration of the Mule 43-4(1 

Objects and Indications 43 

A 8'e 4:5 

Season 4;; 

Preparation 14 

Restraint for 36-:',!) 

Instruments for 35) 

Warning 23-24 

Operative Technique 43-46 

After Care and Treatment 28 

Sequelae 74-91 

Castration of the Ram 124-130 

Objects and Indications 124 

Age 124 

Season 1 24 

Preparation 124 

Restraint 121 

Instruments 124 

Anatomy 125 

Operative Technique 127-129 

After Care and Treatment 129 



INDEX— Con tinned. 

Page 

Castration of the Stallion 14-35 

Objects and Indications 14 

Age 14 

Season 14 

Preparation 14 

Anatomy 19-22 

( '(implications in 47-73 

After Care and Treatment 28 

Sequelae 74-91 

Prognosis 28 

Castration of Stalliox in Recumbent Posture 14-28 

Restraint for 14-16 

Instruments for 16-19 

Warning 23-24 

Operative Technique 25-27 

Castration of Stallion in Standing Posture. . 29-35 

Restraint for 29 

Instruments for 29 

Warning 30 

Operative Technique 31-34 

Advantages 34 

Disadvantages 34 

Castration of the Cryptorchid and Monorchid 

Stallion 51-70 

Definition 51 

Classification 51-53 

Objects and Indications 53 

Diagnosis 53 

Age 54 

Season 54 

Preparation 54 

Restraint 54-57 

Instruments 57-59 

Anatomy 19-22 

Warning 59 

Cleansing and Disinfecting Field of Op- 
eration 59 

Operative Technique 60-66 

After Care and Treatment 69-70 

Sequelae 70 

( !at — ( \\sti;atio\ of the 141-142 

Objects and Indications 141 

Age 141 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Season 141 

Preparation 141 

Restraint 141-142 

Instruments 131 

Anatomy 142 

Operative Technique 133-134 

After Care and Treatment 142 

Cat Spaying 213-217 

Objects and Indications 213 

Age 213 

Season 213 



Preparation 213 

Methods 213 

Anaesthesia 213 

Instruments 213 

Anatomv 213-215 

Restraint (Belly Method) 215 

Operative Technique (Bellv Method) . .207-209 

Restraint (Flank Method) " 215-217 

Operative Technique (Flank Method) . .209-211 

Sequelae 211-212 

Colt — Castration of the 36-42 

Objects and Indications \\ 

Age 36 

Season 36 

Preparation 14 

Anatomy 19-22 

Complications in 47-73 

Restraint for 36-39 

Instruments for 39 

Warning 23-24 

Operative Technique 40-42 

After Care and Treatment 28 

Sequelae 74-91 

Prognosis 28 

Colic 77 

Coed— Schikrous 82-86 

Cow Spaying 164-170 

Objects and Indications 16 1 

Age 164 

Season 161 

Preparation 164-166 

Restraint 166 

Instruments 166 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Anatomy 166-167 

Warning 167 

Operative Technique 167-170 

After Care and Treatment 170 

Deodorizing the Skunk 224-227 

Objects and Indications 224 

Age 224 

Season 224 

Preparation 224 

Restraint 224-225 

Instruments 225 

Anatomy 225-226 

Warning 227 

Operative Technique 227 

After Care and Treatment 227 

Dog— Castration of the 131-135 

Objects and Indications 131 

Age 131 

Season 131 

Preparation 131 

Restraint 131 

Instruments 131 

Anatomy 133 

Operative Technique 133-134 

After Care and Treatment 134-135 

Dog— Cryptorcheo and Monorched, Castration 

of 135-140 

Objects and Indications 135-136 

Age 136 

Season 136 

Preparation 136 

Restraint 137 

Instruments 137 

Anatomy 137-138 

Operative Technique 138-139 

After Care and Treatment 140 

Ewe Spaying 197-200 

Objects and Indications 197 

Age 197 

Season 197 

Preparation 197 

Restraint 197 

Instruments 197 

Anatomy 198 



INDEK-Continued. 

Page 

Warning 199 

Operative Technique 1 99-200 

After Care and Treatment 200 

Exuberant Granulations 86-87 

Granulations— Exuberant 86-87 

Heifer Spaying 170-179 

Objects and Indications 170 

Age 170 

Season 170 

Preparation 170 

Restraint 170-171 

Instruments 171-173 

Operative Technique 174-179 

Hemorrhage— Nature's Methods of Controll- 
ing 22-23 

Primary 78-7!) 

Secondary 79 

Hernia — Inguinal 47-51 

Scrotal 47-51 

Hydrocele 87-91 

Hermaphrodite— Castration of the 71-73 

Definition 71 

Objects and Indications 71 

Age 14 

Season 72 

Preparation 14 

Restraint 54-57 

Anatomy 72 

Instruments 57-59 

Operative Technique 73 

After Care and Treatment 69-70 

Infection — Septic 74 

Inguinal Hernia 47-51 

Injuries from Casting 76 

Intestine— Prolapse of the 76 

Mare Spaying 153-163 

Objects and Indications 153 

Age 153 

Season 153 

Preparation 153 

Restraint 154-155 

Instruments 155 

Auatomy 156-158 

Warning 158 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Operative Technique 158-163 

After Care and Treatment 163 

Sequelae 163 

Mule— Castration of the 43-46 

Objects and Indications 43 

Age 43 

Season 43 

Preparation 14 

Restraint for 36-39 

Instruments for 39 

Warning 23-24 

Operative Technique 43-46 

After Care and Treatment 29 

Sequelae 74-91 

Nature's Methods of Controlling Hemorrhage 22-23 

Oedema of Sheath and Ventral Surface of 

Abdomen 79-81 

Omentum— Prolapse of the 75-76 

Orchitis 71 

Paraphimosis 81-82 

Peritonitis 77 

Poulardizing 218-223 

Objects and Indications 218 

Age 218 

Season 218 

Preparation 218 

Restraint 218-219 

Instruments 219 

Breeds 219 

Anatomy 219-221 

Warning 221 

Operative Technique 222-223 

After ( !are and Treatment 223 

Primary Hemorrhage 78-79 

Prolapse of Intestine 76 

Prolapse of Omentum 75-76 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Ram— Castration of the 124-130 

Objects and Indications 124 

Age 124 

Season 124 

Preparation 124 

Restraint 124 

Instruments 124 

Anatomy 125 

Operative Technique 127-129 

After Care and Treatment 129 

Ruptured Boar — Castration of 115-128 

Schirrous Cord 82-86 

Scrotal Hernia (Boar) 115-123 

(Stallion) 47-51 

Secondary Hemorrhage 79 

Septic Infection 74 

Sequelae of Castration 74-91 

Sheath— Oedema of the 79-81 

Skunk— Deodorizing the 224-227 

Objects and Indications 224 

Age 224 

Season 224 

Preparation 224 

Restraint 224-225 

Instruments 225 

Anatomy 225-226 

Warning 227 

Operative Technique 227 

After Care and Treatment 227 

Spaying the Bitch 201-212 

Objects and Indications 201 

Age 201 

Season 201 

Preparation 201 

Methods of Operating 201 

Anaesthesia 201-202 

Instruments 202 

Anatomy 203-205 

Restraint (Bellv Method) 206-207 

Operative Technique (Bellv Method) . .207-208 

Restraint (Flank Method) 208-209 

Operative Technique (Flank Method). .209-211 

After Care and Treatment 211 

Sequelae 211-212 

16 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Spaying the ( !alf 179-180 

Objects and Indications 179-180 

Age 180 

Season 180 

Preparation 170 

Restraint 180-181 

Instruments 181 

Operative Technique (Flank Method). .181-183 
Operative Technique (Belly Method) . . 183 
Sequelae 184 

Spayixg the Cat 213-217 

Objects and Indications 213 

Age 213 

Season 213 

Preparation 213 

Methods 213 

Anaesthesia 213 

Instruments 213 

Anatomy 213-21 5 

Restraint (Belly Method) 215 

Operative Technique (Bellv Method) . .207-208 

Restraint (Flank Method) ' 215-217 

Operative Technique (Flank Method). .209-211 
Sequelae 211-212 

Spaying the ( low 164-170 

Objects and Indications 164 

Age 164 

Season 164 

Preparation 161-166 

Restraint 166 

Instruments 166 

Anatomy 166-167 

Warning 167 

Operative Technique 167-170 

After ( Jare and Treatment 170 

Spaying the Ewe 197-200 

Objects and Indications 197 

Age 197 

Season 197 

Preparation 197 

Restraint 197 

Instruments 197 



INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Anatomy 198 

Warning 199 

Operative Technique 199-200 

After Care and Treatment 200 

Spaying the Heifer 170-179 

Objects and Indications 170 

Age 170 

Season 170 

Preparation 170 

Restraint 170-171 

Instruments . .171-173 

Operative Technique .174-179 

Spaying the Mare 153-163 

Objects and Indications 153 

Age 153 

Season 153 

Preparation 153 

Restraint 154-155 

Instruments 155 

Aaiatomy 156-1 58 

Warning 158 

Operative Technique 158-163 

After Care and Treatment 163 

Sequelae 163 

Spaying Sows 185-1!).") 

Objects and Indications 1> S "> 

Age 185 

Season 185 

Preparation 185 

Restraint 186-189 

Instruments 180 

Anatomv 180-191 

Operative Technique (Flank Method) . .191-1!):: 
Operative Technique (Belly Method) . .194-1 95 

Stallion— Castration of the 14-35 

Objects and Indications 14 

Age 14 

Season 11 

Preparation 14 

Anatomy 19-22 

Complications in 47-73 

After Care and Treatment 28 



INDEX— Con tinted 

Page 

Sequelae 74-91 

Prognosis 28 

Stallion — Castration of in Recumbent Posture 14-28 

Restraint for 14-16 

Instruments for 16-19 

Warning 23-24 

Operative Technique 25-27 

Stallion — Castration of in Standing Posture. 29-35 

Restraint for 29 

Instruments for 29 

Warning 30 

Operative Technique 31-34 

Advantages 34 

Disadvantages 34 

Tetanus 74-75 

'•Water Bag"— See Hydrocele. 



Restraint of Domestic Animals 



(2nd Edition) 



A BOOK FOR STUDENTS AND PRACTITIONERS 

With 312 illustrations from drawings by one of the best pen artists in tfa 
United States, and 26 halftones from original photographs 

BY 



GEORGE R. WHITE, M.D, D.Y.S. 

NASHYILLE, TENNESSEE 

This book contains over 300 pages and illustrates and fully describes every known 

means of Restraint of the Horse, Ox, Dog and Hog. It is by far 

the best illustrated book ever written in America 

on any branch of Veterinary Science. 



.«'?t 8 !r. t \ i ," t °* Domestic Animals" has already been adopted as a Text Book 
in 18 of the 21 Veterinary Colleges of America. 

Its sale has been phenomenal. 

Every practitioner should secure one for study and reference. 

Published and for sale by the author; also sold by all veterinary booksellers. 



^ PRICE, $3.75 POSTPAID, TO ANY ADDRESS <* 



A FEW EXPRESSIONS FROM THE PROFESSION 

DR. JOHN G. RUTHERFORD, President American Veterinary Medical Association. 

"Your handsome and comprehensive book on 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' received, 
and I am convinced that it is a most valuable book. The illustrations are exceedingly 
well done and the letterpress is very clear and fully explains the methods of using the 
various appliances. You are to be congratulated upon striking an entirely new line in 
veterinary authorship." 

PROF-*. J, MACQUEEN, Royal Veterinary College, London, England. 

"I have looked through the book on 'Restraint.' It seems to be a very useful work 
In this country there is a growing tendency to operate under general anaesthesia. To 
those who experience difficulty in casting and fixing their patients for operation your 
book should be very welcome." 

PROF. W. L. WILLIAMS, Professor Surgery, New York State Veterinary College, Cornell 
University. 

"I have heartily recommended your excellent book to our students." 



PROF. LOUIS A. MERILLAT, Professor Surgery, Chicago Veterinary College. 

"I have looked over the book carefully and beg to express my appreciation of 
your successful effort. The book is needed by the teacher, by the student, and by the 
practitioner, and it will undoubtedly tend to standardize methods of restraint — a reforma- 
tion that is very desirable in veterinary surgery. I have already adopted it as a text- 
book and predict that it will be as favorably received wherever the importance of good 
surgical restraint is comprehended." 

PROF. HARRY D. GILL, Professor Surgery New York American Veterinary College. 

"I desire to compliment you on its comprehensiveness, and to assure you that it fills 
the widest gap in veterinary literature existing today. It is an indispensable reference 
i;ot only for teachers, but practitioners and students as well. 

"To thoroughly appreciate your work the reader should have witnessed your demon- 
strations along this line as I have, and I cannot understand why you have not long 
since been employed by the various colleges to teach this most important subject." 

PROF. D. E. SALMON, University of Montevideo, Uruguay. 

"I desire to congratulate you upon the completion of a book which has certainly 
required much time and labor in its preparation. It will be a useful handbook for both 
the student and practitioner of veterinary surgery." 

WILFRED S. PLASKETT, D.V.S., Clinton, Mass. 

"It is a capital book, and will be appreciated alike by the student and practitioner. 
The text is graphic and the illustrations are the 'best ever.' One can see the modus 
operandi from a glance at the cuts. I trust the book will be received by the profession 
and that the second edition will be shortly forthcoming. The book is neatly gotten out 
and is a credit to the publishing house and the printer. 

"You have filled a long felt want. I think I was one of the first to suggest that you 
undertake the work, consequently will watch its merited reception by the profession 
with a selfish interest." 

PROF. E. A. A. GRANGE, V.S., M.S., Principal Ontario Veterinary College. 

"I think you have approached a subject which has hitherto been almost neglected, 
<'iid you have done it in a manner that is both terse and comprehensive, and nicely illus- 
trated. 

"I think your volume will be a boon to young men who are just entering the practice 
of the veterinary profession, and no doubt to many who have been in practice for a long 
lime. 

"I have added it to our list of text-books." 

PROF. SESCO STEWART, M.D., D.V.M., Dean Kansas City Veterinary College. 

"We have adopted 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' as a text-book, feeling that it 
affords students very valuable instruction and guidance not readily obtainable elsewhere. 
I feel that the profession is greatly indebted to you for placing this matter in their hands 
in such an excellent form." 

PROF. DAVID S. WHITE, Dean Veterinary Department Ohio State University. 

"This is to inform you that we recommend the book to our students and they 
are supplying themselves with them. Let me congratulate you upon adding so valuable 
a work to our literature and at the same time in a very practical way offering a kind 
of information to veterinary students much neglected at most veterinary colleges." 

PROF. LOUIS P. COOK, D.V.S., Dean Cincinnati Veterinary College. 

"The work has been adopted as a text-book at this college, and we regret that it was 
net issued earlier. It fills a long felt need. Had it been issued before our session of 
L908-09 was so nearly over we would have required senior and junior students to obtain 
( opies. I regard the work as one of merit and value to students and practitioners, and I 
Must you will be repaid for the (rouble you have evidently gone to to get the work 
together. Congratulating you on your success as an author and with best wishes." 



PR cu^e E ° RGE K GL ° VER ' Veteri "-y Apartment Colorado State College of Agri- 

"We are now using your text-book, 'Restraint of Domestic Animals ' and find it satis 
factory m every respect. It fills a long felt want and does you great credit" 

PROF. CHARLES KEANE, D.V.S., President San Francisco Veterinary College. 

this tastiSn? UliS WOlk a mUCh needed b °° k and VViU adopt same as text-book at 

PROF. C. A. CARY, B.S., D.V.M., Veterinary Department Alabama Polytechnic Institute 

literatu 1 ^!? wm m h1 HIZ favorabl f; Indeed < J think it supplies a vacant place in 
literature. It will be used as a text-book in this school." 



our 



PROF. W. J. R. FOWLER, V.S., Professor Surgery Ontario Veterinary College. 

give^^tn^n?^ 6 a b *°? k whic \ has lon S been needed. It is a complete work and will 
give a student or practitioner a thorough idea of the subject of restraint." 

PROF. C. E. STEEL, D.V.S., Dean St. Joseph Veterinary College. 

rn.-TT b °° 1 k ' ent ! tled Restraint of Domestic Animals,' has my hearty endorsement 1 
tmnk it supplies a long felt want in veterinary literature." 

PRC o'n" Univer B sU CKINGHAM ' ^^ Department of Veterinary Medicine, George Washing 

-JtLtS co ^ ain ed to say that a master of the art has described all the methods of 
restraint, and the book is a masterpiece. I have adopted it as a text-book in this school." 

PROF. F. S. SCHOENLEBER, D.V.S., Veterinary Department Kansas Agricultural College. 

tn 2 ^V 66 that ^ fi i 1S A gap in 0Ur work and wil1 l"' ove a very valuable acquisition 
to the college course of study. I wish you the full measure of success that the book de- 
serves. 

PROF. GEO. B. McKILLIP, M.D.V., Secretary and Treasurer McKillip Veterinary College. 
"I am pleased to inform you that your book on "Restraint of Domestic Animals' has 
already been adopted as a text-book in the McKillip Veterinary College." 

PROF. JOHN R. SCULLY, Secretary Terre Haute Veterinary College. 

"This book is most complete and concise. For a text-book I am positive that it can- 
not but be well liked by both the practitioner and student." 

PROF. H. L. SCHUH, Professor Surgery Grand Rapids Veterinary College. 

"Your book on 'Restraint of Domestic Animals' received and we think it a very useful 
work. This book will be placed upon the list of recommended books for the student to 
buy, and we will do all in our power to assist you in getting 'Restraint of Domestic 
Animals' in the hands of students and practitioners." 

PROF. H. E. BEMIS, D.V.M., Assistant Professor Surgery, Division Veterinary Medicine, 
Iowa State College. 

"I consider the volume full of most practical and therefore useful information upon the 
subject of animal restraint. I gladly recommend it to our students, and they, too, seem 
much interested." 

PROF, R. C, MOORE, D.V.S., President Kansas City Veterinary College. 

"I think the work is most excellent and one that certainly is of verv great value to 
every practitioner." 



N. 



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